Sylvia Joan Graves

Sylvia Joan Graves September 14, 1938 – October 29, 2025

Sylvia Joan Graves, revered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, in Layton, Utah.

Sylvia was born on September 14, 1938, in Los Angeles, California, to Dorothy (Buchert) and Wilmer Rex. She spent much of her youth among the Redwoods of Northern California—a place and time she always treasured. In 1958, she married the love of her life, Robert Monroe Graves, in San Francisco, California. They were later sealed for time and eternity in the Oakland California Temple and shared a devoted marriage of 65 years until Robert’s passing in 2023.

Though a private person, Sylvia was known for her warmth, generosity, and the loving spirit she brought into the lives of all who knew her.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: daughter Michelle Amos and sons Steve, Aaron, and Scott Graves; her 11 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Robert, her parents Dorothy and Wilmer, her sister Theresa, and many other dear family members and friends who welcomed her home.

Among Sylvia’s greatest accomplishments was raising her four children and supporting her many grandchildren—each of whom she considered her pride and joy. She lovingly served for decades in the Primary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, teaching and nurturing hundreds of children as if they were her own.

A talented seamstress, Sylvia found joy in creating dresses and costumes for her grandchildren and friends. She was also an extraordinary baker, best known for her delicious pies that became the highlight of every family gathering.

In her later years, Sylvia developed a deep love for genealogy, dedicating thousands of hours to researching her family history and ensuring that sacred ordinances could be performed in the House of the Lord. This work was a source of profound joy for her, and she continued it faithfully until the end of her life. We take comfort in knowing her reunion with loved ones beyond the veil was surely a joyous one.

Sylvia’s legacy is one of kindness, humility, and unwavering love for her family and faith. She will be remembered for the light she brought to those around her, her countless sacrifices, and her enduring testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.