Mr. Larry "Sea Dog" Nathaniel Graves

Obituary For Mr. Larry "Sea Dog" Nathaniel Graves

Mr. Larry Nathaniel Graves, affectionately known as "Sea Dog" by family and friends, passed away on September 17, 2026. He was born in Cincinnati, OH, to the late Nathaniel and Elona Graves. In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his siblings, Jeanie Graves, James Graves, and Mary Pendergraph.

Larry graduated from William Penn High School in 1968. After high school, he served four years in the United States Navy and received an honorable discharge. While living in San Diego, CA, he worked at a child development center.

He left California and moved to Washington, DC, where he worked as a chauffeur for the Pentagon. He later returned to High Point, NC, and pursued his education at Guilford Technical Community College, earning a degree in photography and acting. This degree helped him secure a role in the movie "Critical Condition," which was filmed at the old High Point Memorial Hospital. While working on the film, Larry had the incredible opportunity to meet and collaborate with the legendary comedian and actor Richard Pryor.

At the age of 14, Larry had the incredible opportunity to dance on stage with the legendary James Brown and perform on "Soul Train" during his high school years. He showcased his exceptional dancing skills in numerous talent shows and was known for his classy style. Larry was truly a talented artist.

Larry leaves to cherish his memory his siblings, Freda Sinclair of Nevada; Curtis Lilly (Linda) of High Point, NC; Patricia Thomasson of Greensboro, NC; Michael Graves (Mary) of Greensboro, NC; Danny Graves of Asheboro, NC; Brenda Millner of Greensboro, NC; and Saundra Chapman Fisher (Wilbur) of High Point, NC. He will be deeply missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 1:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.

Send flowers to the service of Mr. Larry "Sea Dog" Nathaniel Graves