Jimmie Lee Graves, 91, of Poteau passed away peacefully at his home on Sept. 7, 2026 and was born on Dec. 24, 1934, in Poteau to James Wilbur Graves and Pebble Odell (Jackson) Graves. Jimmie was their only child.
Funeral services are 2 p.m. on Thursday at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau with Phil McGehee officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau.
He graduated from Poteau High School in 1953, where he served as the football manager during Sherman Floyd’s coaching term. Following graduation, he continued his involvement with Poteau football by helping run the chains at home games for 38 years. He also took on a prominent role on the Pirate sideline as the “Get Back” coach, assuring players and coaches were not penalized for being too far off the sidelines.
He proudly served his country and community as a member of the Oklahoma National Guard, Company B, 180th Infantry. He retired after 26 years of service. He was also a longtime member and clubhouse manager of the Choctaw Country Club, where he enjoyed both watching and playing golf. Jimmie retired from OG&E after 32 years of dedicated service. He was a member of Pleasant Valley Free Will Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents James Wilbur and Pebble Odell Graves; his stepfather, Ray Heavener; and his sister-in-law, Glenda Midgley.
Survivors are his wife, Letha Graves, of the home; a daughter Sheila Nichols and husband Mike; his two granddaughters Joy Womack and husband Mike, and Amy Graves and husband Jason; seven great-grandchildren Shawn Womack and wife Breanna, Ryan Womack, Jarrett Lowrimore and wife Hayley, Jordan Lowrimore, Sydnie Womack, Janae Graves, and Jake Graves; seven great-great-grandchildren, Benson, Brawnson, Lakynn, Jax, Blaze, Knox, and Sutton; his brothers-in-law, Rickey Dorey and spouse, Vickie and J.C. Midgley.
Pallbearers for the service are Mike Nichols, Mike Womack, Jason Graves, Jake Graves, Jarrett Lowrimore and Gary Ollie. Honorary pallbearers are Shawn Womack and Ryan Womack.
Viewing and visitation is from 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday at Evans Chapel of Memories.
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