Donald Graves

Donald Nichols Graves, age 80, of Nashville, Tennessee passed away on January 17, 2026, in South Daytona, Florida. He was born on August 16, 1945, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late E.G and Irene Graves.

In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his sister, Kay Graves Hartman, nephew Scott, and niece Renee. Don is survived by his companion of 50 years, Steve Simmons, his brother James Graves, nieces Pam Minutelli (Gino), Kathy Slate (Joe), nephew Keith Graves (Michele), great nephews: Ethan Slate, Nicolas Minutelli, Nathan Minutelli, great nieces: Elizabeth Fletcher (Levi), Julia Smith (Magwan), Sophia Minutelli, as well as his great great nephews Adrien and Nico Smith. Even though Donald Graves departs us, his memory forever resides within those who were blessed to know him.

Don was a long-time resident of Nashville. He began a career in finance but soon found out that the funeral business was his true calling. As a Funeral Director, he was adept at comforting the bereaved. He always ensured that each family that he encountered was taken care of as if they were his own. Always lending a helping hand to those in their darkest moments Don was able to shed a little light on each of them, always showing how kind, caring, and compassionate he truly was. In his free time, Don loved horses. Being in their presence calmed him as he very much enjoyed going on long trail rides. Here, he was able to clear his mind and be present with family, friends, and nature. He also loved the beach, where driving on sandy shores in the sunshine made his heart feel fullest.

Pallbearers for the funeral service of Mr. Graves are to include:

Gino Minutelli

Joe Slate

Keith Graves

Nate Minutelli

Nick Minutelli

Ethan Slate

Services for Mr. Graves will be held on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026. Visitation will occur from 10am until 12pm, at the 12 o’clock hour we will promptly begin our funeral service. Interment will follow at Spring Hill Cemetery located in Madison, TN. Cole & Garrett Funeral Home are to oversee the arrangements of Mr. Donald Graves. Located at 127 N. Main St, Goodlettsville, TN 37072. Phone: (615) 859 – 5231. Online Condolences may be expressed at ColeandGarrett.com under the Obituaries section.