Alan D. Graves

Alan Douglas Graves, 62, of McPherson, KS, passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with family by his side at McPherson Hospital.

He was born June 8, 1962, in Wichita, KS, the son of Roger Duane and Clarice Vayneta (Coate) Graves. He graduated from McPherson High School in 1980 and later received an electronics degree from Southeastern Technical College in Vidalia, GA. In 2004, Alan was united in marriage to Tina M. Wilson, and this union was blessed with a son, Layne Alan Graves.

Alan worked at McPherson Board of Public Utilities for 23 years and was a Power Plant Operator. Prior to that, he worked as an auto mechanic.

Alan’s family and friends lovingly remember his quick wit, dry sense of humor, and trademark sarcasm. Above all, they will remember Alan as a devoted father who always prioritized his son, Layne, his pride and joy. Providing and showing up for Layne was paramount. Layne wants everyone to know how kind his dad was, recalling how his dad taught him manners, how to be polite, how to put others first, and the importance of giving to others. This trait was demonstrated in how often Alan fixed things for his friends and neighbors. Alan was extremely intelligent and known as a jack of all trades, skilled at working through problems, taking anything apart, and putting it back together.

Alan was also known for being fiercely independent. But at the end of his life, Alan had to depend on others in significant ways. As Alan saw and felt all of the unconditional love engulfing him, a new acceptance and surrender fell over him. His final days were wrapped in beautiful and powerful moments with Layne, his mom, siblings, and friends. One of the last things he clearly said, with tears rolling down his face, was: “I’m happy.”

Survivors include his loving son, Layne Graves of McPherson, KS; mother, Clarice Graves of McPherson, KS; siblings, Candace (Phillip) Rapking of Cincinnati, OH, Jeffrey Graves of Lyons, GA, Audrey (Lew) Faust of Manhattan, KS, and Rebecca (Tracy) Swanson of Ozark, MO; eight nieces & nephews; and many extended relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roger Graves, and a sister-in-law, Margaret Graves.

The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Stockham Family Funeral Home with Pastor George Bocox officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until service time Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at McPherson Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be payable to Stockham Family Funeral Home (for the benefit of his son’s college education) or to Gentiva Hospice in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.