The produce industry and United Fresh lost one of their most respected leaders Tuesday with the passing of J. Richard Graves, Jr., Graves Brothers Company, Wabasso, Fla. Richard served as chairman of the United Board in 1988, and subsequently served as treasurer for a number of years after his chairmanship. "Members throughout the industry who worked with Richard know that he was one of the most intelligent, thoughtful and principled leaders one could ever hope to serve in industry leadership," said United Fresh President Tom Stenzel. "Richard helped guide the association through so many important issues, none more important than the successful challenge to preserve PACA in 1995. Even more important, Richard and Mary were true friends to everyone they met on the Board and throughout the industry. Our love goes out to Mary in this time of sadness, but we also are thankful for so many memories of happy times we spent together." 

Among Richard's proudest accomplishment was the establishment of the RCMA Children's House preschool for the children whose parents worked in the groves and packing houses. Richard greatly enjoyed reading stories to and playing with the children at Children's House. Richard also served the community by serving on the boards of the United Way, St. Edwards School, and East Coast Migrant Head Start Project.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, December 2, 2006 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church, 1750 Twentieth Street. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials in Richard's name to Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), PO Box 369, Fellsmere, Fla. 32948 or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 2066 14th Avenue, Vero Beach, Fla. 32960.