Richard A. Graves Jr.

Saco

Richard A. Graves Jr., 61, of Saco, passed away in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 28, 2026 at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.

Richard was born in Melrose, MA at the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital on July 13, 1964, a son of Richard Sr. and Joan (Chaulk) Graves.

His growing years began in Reading, Massachusetts, but at the age of six his family relocated to Saco, Maine.  He was educated in the Saco School system and graduated from Thornton Academy, class of 1982.

His strong work ethic along with a talent for working with his hands led him to a career that was primarily in construction.  For many years he did countertop installations for kitchen remodels, as well as for new construction. He then worked a short time at the Portland Jetport, later returning to the trades as a carpet and flooring contractor. He was forced to retire at the age of 50 due to health issues.

Richard met the love of his life, Machelle Alves, on April 25, 2010.  The couple married three years later on May 11, 2013 and settled in Saco.

Richard was a very social person and enjoyed interacting and talking with everyone, particularly with his many friends. He made so many incredible memories with his family, friends and cousins at their camp on Arlington Pond in Salem, New Hampshire. He took pride in his red 1980's IROC Camaro and enjoyed taking it for road trips.  Richard always had a soft spot for animals, with cats being at the top of his list.

Most of all, he loved his family and the tight bond they shared, especially with his cousins. He will be sadly missed by many.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Richard A. Graves Sr. and Joan Carolyn Graves, and by his stepdaughter, Taylor Machelle Hartley.

He is survived by his loving wife, Machelle Alves-Graves; by his stepson, Thomas J. Hartley; by his sister Laura, by his brother, Jim Graves and wife Marlene, by two nieces and a nephew who he was very close to, Sabrina Kilzi, Carolyn Graves and Andrew Graves; as well as by several other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visiting hours for Richard will take place from 10:00am to 11:30am; with a funeral service following at 11:30am on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at Cote Funeral Home, 87 James Street, Saco. He will be laid to rest in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco.