1948-2022
Michael Alexander Graves, 74, of Greenwich, CT, passed away at his home on Friday, August 26, after a long illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sherryl Browne Graves; two sons, Daren A. Graves of Boston, MA, and Camar A. Graves of New Haven, CT; and six grandchildren.
Mr. Graves received his Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Swarthmore College, Class of 1969. He attended Harvard Law School, earning a JD (Class of 1972) and then Harvard Business School, earning MBA (Class of 1975). Throughout his career, he worked in the financial services industry for several firms in New York and Connecticut, including a position for CitiBank in Venezuela. He retired from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, a watchdog group for the industry.
Mr. Graves cared deeply about the affairs of the world, and what role he could play in bringing about justice in this world. He was active in the Urban League and the 100 Black Men of Fairfield County. While also committed to issues like peace in the Middle East and the right to a high quality education, Mr. Graves was particularly focused on helping urban communities build capacity and on funding scholarships to promote educational and economic access for underserved students.
Mr. Graves enjoyed spending his time watching movies, playing word games, and watching sports. His enjoyment of the activities was only truly realized when he was doing them with his wife and children.
A Celebration of Life was held on Thursday, September 1, at the Graves Medley Funeral Services, Stamford. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Swarthmore Black Alumni Network (SBAN) internship endowment in the name of Michael A. Graves ’69.
