Amanda Marie (Kendle) Graves

On November 13,2024, the world lost a truly remarkable soul.  Amanda Marie Graves was so much more than a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend; she was a source of light, strength, and love that lifted everyone around her.  Born on December 4, 1983, to Shelia Kendle and Rocky Walker, Amanda brought warmth, humor and kindness to each life she touched, and her absence leaves a void that words can hardly express.

Amanda's family was her heart and soul.  Her husband, Dereck Graves, and her children-Alexis Kendle, Levi Graves and Tyler Graves-were the center of her universe.  Amanda's devotion to them was boundless, as was her pride in each of them.  She had a special way of making each person feel understood, valued and deeply loved no matter what they were going through.

Amanda's life was filled with simple joys and meaningful connections.  She loved doing her nails, gathering her family for laughter-filled evenings or get together, and lending support even when her own burdens were heavy.  Her strength and kindness were limitless, and she was always quick to lift others up - even when she was struggling.  Amanda's family describes her as one of the strongest women they've ever known, someone who faced life with resilience, humor and a huge heart.

In her career at PetSmart, Amanda wasn't just an employee-she was a friend, a mentor and a bright presence.  Her genuine love for helping others made her an anchor to so many, and she took great joy in the friendships she built there.  Her coworkers knew her as someone who would always lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or bring a little laughter to their day.

Amanda is survived by her siblings, who adored her: Misti Kendle; Jamaica (Selena) Putman; Rocky (Michelle) Walker; Arizona (Katie) Walker; Adam Walker; and Austin Lloyd, as well as her brother-and sister-in-law, Dustin and Tasha Graves.  She also leaves behind 18 nieces and nephews, who will forever remember their beloved Aunt Amanda for the warmth and joy she brought into their lives.  Each of her family members carries memories of Amanda's endless encouragement, the times she stood by them, and the laughter she freely shared.

Preceded in death by her parents, Shelia Kendle and Rocky Walker, and her grandparents, Arbadella and Robert Kendle, Amanda is now reunited with those she loved deeply.  Her legacy lives on in the lessons she imparted to her family, the love she poured into her children, and the memories she created with each person blessed to know her.

Visitation will be from 12-1pm Wednesday, November 20,2024, at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home 701 Vine St. Poplar Bluff.  The service will follow at 1pm in the funeral home chapel with Tim Shults officiating.  Burial will follow in the City Cemetery.

Amanda's spirit will forever be our comfort, her laughter our joy, and her love our strength.  She was, and will always be, a guiding light to those who loved her.