Jean Hope Graft

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

Loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Jean Hope (nee Routson) Graft, died peacefully in her daughter’s home, March 22, 2006, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on August 31, 1926 to parents John Taswell and Mary Alice Routson.

Jean worked for Armco Steel Corporation after graduating Monroe High School, and was an active member of St. Luke United Presbyterian Church in Middletown, all places where she formed lifelong friendships. She loved gardening and was well known for her canned fruits, vegetables, and jellies. Jean enjoyed playing cards, dancing, cooking, and most of all, singing. Her family and God were most precious in her life.

Jean was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 51 years, William Martin Graft; her parents; brothers, Ambers (Maphia), Everett, Herschel (Lois), and Walter 'Buddy' Routson; sisters, Edythe (Lin) Mendenhall, Martha (Richard) Mather, and Ruth Jackson; and sister-in-law, Dolly Graft.

She is survived by brother-in-law and dear friend, Robert Graft; a daughter, Carolyn Ruth (Danny) Reveal; two sons, William Andrew (Kathy) Graft and Thomas Martin (Teresa) Graft; grandchildren, Kristopher (Amy), Matthew (Jackie), Steve (Michele), Joshua, Victoria, Ruth, and Danny Jr.; step grandchildren, Brian (Anne & Bobby), Greg (Melody & Beau), Phillip, and Bradley; great grandchildren, Samantha, Nicholas, Nash, & Chase; sister, Mary Rita (Bill) Wilch; brother-in-law, John Jackson; sisters-in-law, Esther Routson and Marilyn (Hamm) Routson; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Edward Hughes, the staff of First Dayton Cancer Center, and Hospice of Dayton.

Funeral Service will be held Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Luke´s United Presbyterian Church, 4311 Walton Ct., Middletown, with Reverend Janet Dillaman and Reverend Marla Brown officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service, from 10-11 AM at the church. Interment will be at Woodside Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Luke´s United Presbyterian Church, 4311 Walton Ct., Middletown, OH 45042.

Funeral Home:
Wilson-Schramm-Spaulding
3805 Roosevelt Blvd.
Middletown, OH
US 45044