<a href="http://www.blackenterprise.com/news/barbara-graves-wife-of-black-enterprise-founder-earl-graves-sr-dies/">Barbara Graves</a>, who passed away of gall bladder cancer on May 25, 2012, was an steadfast and loving partner to her husband, Black Enterprise Founder and Publisher Earl Graves Sr., and the guiding force behind the Black Enterprise mission of economic opportunity for African Americans. She was an accomplished educator and businesswoman, as well mentor and role model for executives and professionals at Black Enterprise and beyond.
Barbara Graves was a indispensible business partner as well as life partner of Earl Graves Sr. Whether serving as chief editor of <em>Black Enterprise</em> magazine, a member of the board, or his personal speechwriter, she was his best friend, his right hand, his chief and most valued advisor.
Barbara and Earl Graves, Sr. commit to a lifetime together at their wedding ceremony.
The bride celebrates with her bridesmaids.
From the start, Barbara saw her primary role as a wife supporting her
husband's dreams no matter how far fetched they seemed, even to her. In 1970, with a mortgage and a young family to feed, she stood firmly behind Earl's endeavor to launch <em>Black Enterprise</em>. Here, Barbara and Earl present their youngest son Michael to the world, as older brothers Johnny and Earl, Jr., look on. All three sons would go on to become executives at <em>Black Enterprise</em> in adulthood.
Hand-in-hand, Barbara and Earl Graves, Sr. walk with sons, Earl Jr., Michael and Johnny.
In 2005, Barbara Graves played a leading role in the development of the <a href="http://www.blackenterprise.com/events/women-of-power-summit/" target=_blank>Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit</a>, the leading national networking event for women executives of color.
Barbara Graves is at her husband's side as <em>Black Enterprise</em> Publisher Earl Graves rings the closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange on February 10, 2006.
Barbara and Earl Graves join Oprah Winfrey during her photo session for the cover of the June 2008 issue of <em>Black Enterprise</em>, in which Winfrey's Harpo Inc. was named BE 100s Industrial Service Company of the Year.
Barbara joins her husband and a granddaughter, Veronica, for a photo op with President Bill Clinton at a Westchester African American Chamber of Commerce Gala. Know for shunning the spotlight, she was nevertheless and ever-present source of support and inspiration for her family.
Barbara Graves' high standards and unerring sense of right and wrong made her the guiding light of the <em>Black Enterprise</em> brand, but to Earl, she was simply his soul mate.
Mr. and Mrs. Graves enjoy some time away together.
The Graves Family Christmas Card, featuring all of the children and
grandchildren of Earl and Barbara Graves, was an annual tradition greatly anticipated by family and friends alike.
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“My mother was a steadfast and loving partner and counselor to my father; his quiet source of strength and inspiration,” says Earl Graves Jr., president and CEO of <em>Black Enterprise</em>. “She served as mentor and guide to several generations of employees, managers and professionals. Above all, she genuinely cared for every member of the Black Enterprise family, and held a special passion for children and young people in particular.”
When I was growing up in rual South Eastern, NC,! There was an old saying. “behind every good man, is a good woman”. I grew up hearing that so VERY often.It was true. Ms. Graves, among so many other notable women in business and personal life, defined that erm to SUCh a degree. My mother, behind and long side my father. Ms. Graves leaves such a leagacy for your women to follow and emulate. Her lifes work will be with us for decades to come.
Lisa Rawlings
My sincere condolences to the Graves family and to the Black Enterprise team. What a wonderful example of wife, partner, mother and leader. Thank you for sharing these memories with your community!
Elaine Jackson
Mr. Graves – Please accept our condolences for the loss of your wife.
Elaine Jackson
Massachusetts
http://twitter.com/PlainWayne2 Plain Wayne
in many ways she was the inspirational and collective mother to many of us. With her husband, Earl Graves Sr., they inspired, taught, and guided us to what was important to family, our communities and ourselves. Dignity, integrity and character defined her entire life and the Graves family. She will be missed, but forever in mind of what we should strive for in life as well as business. Barbara Graves made a profound difference, we are so glad to have shared and benefited from her life among us.
natalie johnson
To the entire Graves’ family and circle of friends, my condolences and prayers to each of you. May you each find peace and comfort during this very difficult time so that the legacy of your matriarch will forever be etched. Just remember that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.
James webb
Truly a wonderful relationship and partnership.
R. Mintz
May this new peace build yet a stronger family unity of giving to a Legacy of education and service.
The National Business League
aka: ” The National Negro Business League founded by Booker T Washington in 1900″
Shawn
I had the pleasure of being a part of the Black Enterprise Family for several years. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Mrs. Graves. I offer my condolences to the entire Graves family.
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Celebrating the Life of Barbara Graves, Wife of Black Enterprise Publisher Earl Graves, Sr.
