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Sally Sample Graves

Sally Sample Graves: A Life of Grace, Community, and Enduring Legacy

Sally Sample Graves, a beloved figure in the Longview community whose warmth and dedication touched countless lives, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2023, at the age of 78. Surrounded by her loving family at her home in Longview, Texas, Sally's departure marks the end of an era for those who knew her as a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and tireless volunteer. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and unwavering faith, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Born Sally Ann Sample on July 12, 1944, in the small town of Kilgore, Texas, she was the youngest of five children to John and Margaret Sample, hardworking farmers who instilled in her the values of perseverance and community spirit. Growing up during the post-World War II era, Sally's childhood was shaped by the simplicity of rural life—helping on the family farm, attending a one-room schoolhouse, and participating in local church events. These early experiences fostered her deep-rooted sense of empathy and her lifelong commitment to helping others. As a young girl, she often recounted stories of picking cotton in the fields alongside her siblings, learning the importance of hard work and family bonds that would define her adult years.

Sally's educational journey began at Kilgore High School, where she excelled academically and was actively involved in extracurricular activities. She was a standout member of the debate team and the school choir, showcasing her natural charisma and love for the arts. Her passion for learning led her to pursue higher education at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education in 1966. It was during her college years that she met her future husband, Robert "Bob" Graves, a fellow student studying business administration. Their courtship was a classic tale of young love—picnics by the Neches River, dances at local halls, and shared dreams of building a life together. They married on June 10, 1967, in a modest ceremony at First Baptist Church in Kilgore, embarking on a partnership that would span over five decades.

Professionally, Sally dedicated her career to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher in the Longview Independent School District. For 35 years, she taught third and fourth grades at Pine Tree Elementary, where her innovative teaching methods and genuine care for her students earned her the nickname "Mrs. Sunshine." Colleagues remember her as the teacher who went above and beyond, organizing after-school reading clubs, holiday plays, and even personal tutoring sessions for struggling students. One of her proudest achievements was implementing a community literacy program in the 1980s that partnered local businesses with schools to provide books and resources to underprivileged children. This initiative not only improved literacy rates in the district but also fostered a sense of unity among residents. Sally's impact extended beyond the classroom; she was a mentor to new teachers, often sharing her wisdom on balancing professional demands with family life. Her retirement in 2001 was celebrated with a school-wide assembly, where former students returned to share stories of how her encouragement had changed their lives.

Family was the cornerstone of Sally's existence. She and Bob raised three children: daughter Emily Graves Thompson, now a nurse in Dallas; son Michael Graves, an engineer in Houston; and youngest daughter Laura Graves Patel, a teacher in Austin. Sally was a hands-on mother, baking homemade cookies for school events, attending every soccer game and piano recital, and creating cherished family traditions like annual summer trips to Lake O' the Pines. Her home was always open to friends and neighbors, hosting legendary Thanksgiving dinners that brought together extended family from across Texas. In later years, Sally found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to seven grandchildren—ranging in age from 5 to 22—and two great-grandchildren. She delighted in spoiling them with stories from her youth, teaching them to garden, and passing down family recipes, such as her famous pecan pie. Her grandchildren often speak of "Grammy's wisdom," recalling how she emphasized the importance of education, kindness, and faith in overcoming life's challenges.

Sally's commitment to her community was profound and multifaceted. A lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Longview, she served as a Sunday school teacher for over 40 years, guiding generations of children through biblical lessons with her gentle, engaging style. Her faith was not just a personal anchor but a driving force for her volunteer work. She was instrumental in establishing the church's food pantry in the 1970s, which grew to serve hundreds of families in need during economic downturns. Additionally, Sally was a key organizer for the Longview chapter of Habitat for Humanity, volunteering countless hours to build homes for low-income families. Her efforts were recognized in 2010 when she received the East Texas Community Service Award, an honor that highlighted her selfless contributions. Even in retirement, she remained active, participating in the local senior center's book club and knitting group, where she crafted blankets for newborns at Good Shepherd Medical Center.

Beyond her public roles, Sally had a rich personal life filled with hobbies and passions that reflected her vibrant spirit. An avid gardener, she transformed her backyard into a blooming oasis of roses, hydrangeas, and vegetable patches, often sharing her harvest with neighbors. She was also a talented quilter, creating intricate pieces that won awards at the Gregg County Fair. Music held a special place in her heart; she played the piano at family gatherings and sang in the church choir until her health began to decline. Travel was another joy—Sally and Bob explored national parks across the U.S., with memorable trips to Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. These adventures not only strengthened their bond but also provided fodder for the stories she loved to tell.

In her final years, Sally faced health challenges with the same grace and positivity that defined her life. Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2015, she approached her condition as an opportunity to advocate for awareness and support research through local fundraisers. Despite mobility issues, she continued to engage with her community, hosting virtual Bible studies during the COVID-19 pandemic and maintaining close connections with loved ones via video calls. Her family describes her as a pillar of strength, always quick with a smile or an encouraging word, even on difficult days.

Sally is preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret Sample; her husband, Bob Graves, who passed in 2018; and her brother, Thomas Sample. She is survived by her three children, Emily (husband David Thompson), Michael (wife Sarah Graves), and Laura (husband Raj Patel); her grandchildren: Anna, Jacob, Sophia, Ethan, Mia, Lucas, and Olivia; her great-grandchildren: Emma and Noah; her siblings: Mary Sample Hayes, William Sample, and Elizabeth Sample Ford; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A celebration of Sally's life will be held at First Baptist Church in Longview on March 20, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor John Reynolds officiating. Visitation will precede the service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the church. Interment will follow at Lakeview Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Parkinson's Foundation or the Longview Habitat for Humanity chapter, causes close to Sally's heart.

Sally Sample Graves lived a life full of purpose, love, and service. Her story is one of quiet heroism—the kind that builds communities from the ground up, one act of kindness at a time. As her granddaughter Anna poignantly shared, "Grammy didn't just teach us how to live; she showed us how to love." In remembering Sally, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have, and her spirit will undoubtedly continue to shine through the lives she touched.

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Read the Full Longview News-Journal Article at:
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