Mr. Arlon Tremaine Graves

Obituary For Mr. Arlon Tremaine Graves

Arlon arrived in a world where he was surrounded by adoring family members. November 18, 1986, filled his grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins with joy and excitement at his arrival. Clever, stubborn, articulate and with the comedic timing of an old school comedian, little Arlon charmed his family into giving up WWE wrestling toys, video game systems, international vacations and most of all, hours of affectionate hugs. His church family at West Mt. Sinai Baptist church nurtured his spiritual curiosity and welcomed his presence in the Youth Choir. Both he and his younger brother Armond accepted Christ and were baptized into the church.

As a child, it was apparent that Arlon was both musically and athletically gifted. Fiercely competitive, he loved all sports and played middle and high school basketball at Lamar County. He was passionate about music and excellently played baritone in the marching band. He thoroughly enjoyed rap and hiphop music and one of his most exciting memories was attending the BET Awards, going backstage and meeting some of his musical idols. His gregarious personality and sense of humor enabled Arlon to make and keep friends and associates throughout his life. There is still serious debate about who his best friend actually is.

Although, Arlon was accepted at Albany State University, he briefly attended Gordon College before deciding not to pursue academia. He had a strong work ethic and preferred physical labor, working in food service at subway, electronics installment in state and federal prisons, warehouse distribution at Home Depot and truck building and production at Wabash Industries. He was proud of his work accomplishments but there was absolutely no comparison to the pride, joy and unconditional love he had for his children.

In 2012, he became father to a daughter, Arlondi, and a year later, a son, Arlon, Jr. with Ardrana Pate. His children were the absolute loves of his life. Illness made it impossible for him to physically care for them, but his heart was always with them.

Shortly before he transitioned, Arlon shared with his brother Armond and his aunt Niecy that he had separate dreams where he was visited by his parents, who passed in 2012 and 2013. In the dreams, they each said to him, “Get up, it's time to go!” As he shared the dream, he was joyful and at peace yet acknowledge the sadness his leaving would bring. His life was a God-given lesson in grace and mercy, and our prayer is that each memory of Arlon will be filled with such.

In addition to his children Arlondi and AJ, his memory will be cherished by his beloved brother Armond Graves, niece Lyndsie Graves, Aunts Eugenia Harvey and Lisa (Julian) Minor, Uncle Kenneth (Tamekia) Graves, half-brother Arte Graves, several very close cousins, Great Aunts Grace Harvey, Gladys Turner Lee and Louise Turner, Ardrana Pate and her family and legions of best friends.