Shirley J. Graves fell asleep in Jesus on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the age of 87 in Whitewater, Wisconsin

Shirley was born on June 3, 1938, in Milwaukee, WI, the daughter of Walter and Ella (Abel) Elmer.  She attended high school at Wisconsin Academy in Columbus, Wisconsin, graduating in 1956.  While teaching in a one room school in Richland Center, WI, she met Lester Graves. They were married December 21, 1958 and were together almost 60 years when Lester passed away in 2018.

Shirley is best remembered for her love of music and family. She also committed herself deeply to her relationship with God and her ministry to those at church. She enjoyed being outdoors and watching the birds and animals in the yard. She worked most of her career for the New Berlin Public School system doing clerical, audio visual, and accounts payable work.

Shirley is survived by her children, Roger (Vanessa) Graves of Box Elder, SD; Jane (Thom) Foll of Whitewater, WI; and 6 grandchildren, Rachel (Cory), Erika (Jef), Kendra (Halston), Austin (Ashley), Sarah, and Anna. Additionally, she is survived by 4 great-grandchildren, Zara, Colette, Edwynn, and Elora.  Shirley is also survived by other family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings, Walter “Bud” Elmer and Doloris Knecht.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Madison Community Seventh-day Adventist Church in Madison (1926 Elka Ln., Madison, WI 53704) with Pastor Jeanmark A’Kessler presiding.  Visitation will be on Sunday from 10:00AM until the time of service at the church.  Luncheon to follow the service. Graveside services will take place at 4:00PM at East Pine River Cemetery in Yuba, WI (outside Richland Center) with a light meal to follow the service.