Frances Vermell Graves

With heavy hearts yet grateful spirits, we honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Frances Vermell Graves, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, educator, and friend. Born in Marion, South Carolina, to Alma N. Finklea and Fredrick D. Finklea, Frances was raised in faith and family, worshipping at St. John AME Church, where she later exchanged vows in holy matrimony.

 A proud graduate of Marion County Training School (Class of 1959), Frances was a dedicated student, serving as captain of the basketball team and an active participant in various school organizations. Her academic journey continued at Allen University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature (1963). During her time at Allen, she graced the field as a majorette and was honored as a participant on the Kappa Alpha Psi Sweetheart Court. With a love for literature and education, she later pursued her Master’s in Classic and Contemporary Literature from North Carolina A&T University (1978). 

Her career as an educator began at the Caswell County and Guilford County Boards of Education in North Carolina before she relocated to Marlton, New Jersey. There, she became an esteemed member of the Camden County School System and an Adjunct Professor of English at Camden County Community College. During her tenure at Camden High, she served as the English Department Chairperson and was the head of the Writing Club, Drama and Speech Club, and Faculty Liaison, leaving a profound impact on her students and colleagues. Her dedication to education earned her numerous awards and recognitions.

 Beyond the classroom, Frances was an active member of NJEA, the Allen University Alumni Association, and the Camden County Outreach Organization. 

On April 3, 1965, she married the late Leonard S. Graves, and together they built a life centered around love, family, and education. From this beautiful union, they were blessed with two daughters, Vernicia L. Graves and Kimberly L. Kemp, and later, the joy of two granddaughters, Kayla Graves Sumo and Karrington Kemp. 

Vermell, as she was affectionately called, found immense joy in attending her granddaughters’ activities, celebrating their achievements as their biggest cheerleader. She was an avid sports fan, rooting for Penn State, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Golden State Warriors. In her leisure, she found comfort in reading, appreciating the arts, and tending to her beautiful garden.

 She leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of her daughters, granddaughters, and siblings: Fredrick Finklea, Rudolph Finklea (Blanche), Andre Finklea, Zelta Williams (Mike), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Her legacy of wisdom, grace, and strength will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

Please keep the family of Frances Vermell Graves in your thoughts and prayers.