Betty Dorene Graves, age 70, of Covington, died Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Lewis-Gale Alleghany Hospital in Low Moor.

Betty was born, July 23, 1953, in Alleghany County, and was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Graves, Sr. and Catherine Silvery Graves, and her sister, Yvette Graves Broadnax.

Betty, as she was affectionately called by many, graduated from Covington High School in 1971 and left the area to further her education after graduation. She earned many certificates from various educational institutions. She also was a recipient of the Christian Leader Award from Christian Leaders Institute. Betty made her home in Washington, D.C., and while there she was a paralegal assistant and word processor for the Internal Revenue, Department of Justice and two law firms, Shaw Pittman, and Troutman & Sanders. Outside of working she worked for Catholic Charities helping with estate planning, writing wills, and helped with landlord/tenant issues. While residing in Washington, D.C. she was the bookkeeper for her father’s business, Grave’s Taxi.  She returned home to Covington several years ago with the intent to help everyone, especially the youth. She wholeheartedly believed in investing in the future, and our future is the children. She was a lady that loved to give to everyone, and she was constantly spreading her love around by giving gifts of love to all. Betty returned home to her home church, Pine Street Baptist Church where she was a very active member but later joined New Dimensions Christian Fellowship. Needless to say, Betty was a woman of many talents to offer and share to anyone who would receive them. She was passionate about all she did and did everything with God as the foundation.

Surviving is her companion for many years, Phillip D. Bland; one son, Phillip A. Bland, and numerous family members.

In keeping with Betty’s wishes, her body has been cremated. A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, April 27, at 11:00 A.M. at the New Dimensions Christian Fellowship, 201 East Pine Street, Covington, with Bishop Isaiah Freeman, III, officiating and Reverend R. D. Jenkins delivering the eulogy.

Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted to handle her service arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting arrittfuneralhome.com.