Leon Edwin Graves

Leon Edwin Graves, 74, of Salem, Arkansas departed this life on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 in Salem, Arkansas. Leon was born to the late Edwin Booker Graves and Allie (Whisenhunt) Graves on October 5, 1944 in Langley, Arkansas.

Leon was united in marriage to Betty Rie Simmons on August 15, 1963 in Langley, Arkansas. Leon was a minister for fifty two years and started Salem First Missionary Baptist Church in 1977. Leon also was a cabinet maker and owned “The Shop” in Salem since 1989. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.

Leon leaves to mourn his passing; spouse, Betty (Simmons) Graves of Salem, Arkansas; son, Patrick Lincoln Graves of Hockley, Texas; two daughters, Regina Ann Snelgroes and husband John of Viola, Arkansas and Leea Jean Browning of Salem, Arkansas; five grandchildren, Matthew Twilley and Laci, Nathan Snelgroes, Alexis Graves, Lisa Browning and Natalie Browning; great grandson, Logan Twilley; many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents. 

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, May 4, 2019 at First Missionary Baptist Church in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. Mike Haney, Larry Travelstead and Danny Self officiating. Visitation will be 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Friday, May 3, 2019 at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Interment will be in the Salem Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas. Pallbearers are Matthew Twilley, Nathan Snelgroes, Seth Travelstead, Shane Travelstead, Shawn Travelstead, Mitchell Mabe and Mason Mabe. Honorary pallbearers are Albert Roork, Randy Robinson, Larry Travelstead and John Snelgroes. Memorials may be made to the Budd Creek Baptist Church Camp in Greers Ferry, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.