Lawrence DeWayne Graves passed from this life leaving behind a legacy shaped by strength, discipline, and an unbreakable bond with God’s creation. Born with a natural gift for athleticism and a heart that beat for the outdoors, Lawrence lived a life full of purpose, passion, and quiet determination.

He was born on January 3, 1964, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. His mother Billie Burnette Graves taught him that the foundation of his life would be his faith and education.

From his earliest years, it was clear that Lawrence was destined to be an athlete. During his high school career as an Arkadelphia Badger, he became a standout in football, baseball, and track—earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and the entire Arkadelphia community. His speed on the field, his power at the plate, and his relentless drive on the track made him a true competitor. During his senior year in high school, he ran a 9.8 - One Hundred Yard Dash. These feats evidenced his athleticism.

After high school graduation in 1982, Dwayne initially signed a football scholarship to play at Northeast Louisiana University. He later returned home to Arkadelphia to play for Coach Buddy Bob Benson and the Ouachita Baptist University Tigers. He always had a relentless aggressiveness, which he possessed and displayed when he was either running the football or blocking for someone else. You could always count on DeWayne.

As a Ouachita Tiger, he earned the name DeWayne "Buck-Wild" Graves because he would run the football attempting to score a touchdown with the same energy as a wild buck would clash horns in a fierce battle to live another day. He would run through you, by you, or even jump over you. He was a Bonafide baller.

He didn’t just play sports; he embodied them. His athletic excellence continued into college, where he proudly represented his school in all three disciplines, proving that his talent was matched only by his discipline and commitment.

But Lawrence’s true field of mastery was not only under stadium lights—his sanctuary was the open air. He was an avid sportsman, an outdoorsman in every sense of the word. The woods of Curtis, Arkansas were not just a place he visited; they were where he came alive. Hunting was his heartbeat. Whether he carried a rifle, a mullet, or a bow and arrow, he moved through God’s creation with reverence, skill, and gratitude. He understood the land, respected nature, and found peace in the stillness of the forest. Those who knew him understood: the outdoors wasn’t a hobby for Lawrence—it was his life’s rhythm.

Education was also a pillar of his journey. Lawrence earned his high school diploma and went on to graduate from college, a milestone he secured through perseverance and focus. His professional life reflected that same spirit. In 1988, Dwayne moved to Dallas, Texas, and began his career with Dean Witter, which is now known as Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. During his 37-year tenure with the company, he held various leadership positions, including Lead Insert Operator, Safety Coordinator, and Production Control Analyst. He was known for his sharp mind, steady work ethic, and ability to solve problems with both logic and creativity. His colleagues admired his diligence and his calm, reliable presence.

When he wasn’t working or hunting, you could almost always find Lawrence near water—rod in hand, smile on his face. Fishing brought him joy and rest. It was another way he connected with the world around him, appreciating the quiet gifts that come from patience and time spent outdoors.

Lawrence will be remembered as a man of strength, a man of skill, and a man whose soul was deeply connected to the land, the forest, and the open skies. He lived boldly, loved deeply, and embraced the life God laid out for him—with courage, gratitude, and purpose.

He leaves behind cherished memories that will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy is one of discipline, adventure, and unwavering passion. May his spirit now rest in the eternal peace of the One who created the very wilderness he loved so dearly.

Memories will remain in the hearts of his daughter: Erica Griffith of Arlington, Texas; his aunts, Nola Roberts and Louise Chambers of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and his special cousin, Denise Chambers of Cedar Hill, TX numerous cousins, other relatives and innumerable friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Brunette Graves; brother, Gregory D. Graves;  maternal grandparents, Leona Williams and Jeffery Graves. 

Visitation will be Friday, December 12, 2025, at Williams Funeral Home from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm with additional viewing one hour prior to the service on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at New Beginning Christian Ministries 323 E. Grand Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901 with Elder Vernon Moody, eulogist. Interment will be at Crestview Cemetery in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Leotis McClure, Rob Green, Robert Stroud, Lavon Laster, Dean Morris and Wayne Hawley. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Stroud, Curtis Spratt, Briant Chambers and Shawn Thomas.