Jimmie Lee Graves

Jimmie Lee Graves, 91, of Poteau, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on September 7, 2026. He was born on December 24, 1934, in Poteau, Oklahoma, to James Wilbur Graves and Pebble Odell (Jackson) Graves. Jimmie was their only child.

Jimmie 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.

Jimmie 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.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents, James Wilbur and Pebble Odell Graves; his stepfather, Ray Heavener; and his sister-in-law, Glenda Midgley.

He is survived by his wife, Letha Graves, of the home. Together, they were blessed with one daughter, Sheila Nichols and husband, Mike.

He is also survived by 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; and seven great-great-grandchildren, Benson, Brawnson, Lakynn, Jax, Blaze, Knox, and Sutton.

Jimmie is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Rickey Dorey and spouse, Vickie, and J.C. Midgley.

Funeral services for Jimmie Lee Graves, 91, of Poteau, Oklahoma, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma, with Phil McGehee officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.

Pallbearers for the service will be: Mike Nichols, Mike Womack, Jason Graves, Jake Graves, Jarrett Lowrimore, and Gary Ollie. Honorary Pallbearers are Shawn Womack and Ryan Womack.