Black Enterprise founder Earl Graves Sr’s wife Barbara Graves passes away

Barbara Graves, the wife of Earl Graves Sr, passed away at Howard University Hospital after a more than three-year battle with gall bladder cancer. She was 75.

Barbara Graves played a key role in the growth and development of the Black Enterprise, a media and publication company which focused on the economic empowerment and wealth building for African Americans.

Barbara Graves a graduate of Brooklyn College and former elementary school teacher was instrumental in the success and growth of Black Enterprise since the publication was founded in 1970 where she held various positions from editorial director, circulation director and chief financial officer, during the 40-plus-years Black Enterprise has been in existence.

Mrs. Graves also co-founded and guided the Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit, the premier networking event and conference for women executives of color. She also played an instrumental role in grooming and developing executive leaders, including her sons Earl Jr., Johnny and Michael. They both worked as executives at Black Enterprise.

Her son Earl Graves Jr., president and CEO of Black Enterprise states that

My mother was a steadfast and loving partner and counselor to my father; his quiet source of strength and inspiration,” “She served as mentor and guide to several generations of employees, managers and professionals. Above all, she genuinely cared for every member of the Black Enterprise family, and held a special passion for children and young people in particular.

Unheard Voices Magazine sends their deepest condolences out to the Graves family in their time of lost.

Her accomplishments and entrepreneurial spirit has touched many lives including the CEO of Unheard Voices Chenelle Renee Covin. She was a role model for all.

According to Black Enterprise, Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., to be preceded by a public viewing from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, June 2, at Grace Missionary Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, N.Y.