Jeffery Graves

Jeffery N. Graves, 62, of Idaho Falls, peacefully passed away March 4, 2025, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his wife and children.

Jeff was born April 22, 1962, in Rigby, Idaho, to Charles Elmer Graves and DeAnn Drollinger Graves. He grew up and attended schools in Idaho Falls and graduated from Skyline High School. He also attended Idaho State University where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a full-time mission to Thailand. On his mission he developed a deep love for the people of Thailand and for Thai food.

Jeff married Karen Arbon in 1986, they later divorced. On July 19, 2002, he married Tamara Louise Hutchens in Idaho Falls, Idaho. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple. Jeff and Tamara made their home in Idaho Falls, where Jeff worked at Smith’s and Heartland Pharmacy.

Since childhood Jeff had a love for wrestling. He wrestled in junior high and in high school. His passion continued as he coached Grizz Kid Wrestling and went on to be an assistant coach at Eagle Rock Jr. High and an assistant coach of Skyline High School. He was always proud to be a part of the coaching staff that lead the 2002 Grizzlies to a state wrestling championship. He loved to watch college wrestling with his sons, grandsons, brothers, and nephews. His excitement and passion for wrestling was contagious.

He was an amazing father and grandpa. Jeff loved supporting his children and grandchildren in all that they did, attending countless wrestling matches, football games, basketball games, hockey games, soccer games, cheer competitions, rodeos, choir concerts, musicals, and scouting events. He adored his grandchildren and took every opportunity to spend time with them, play with them, and go for rides with them. He loved helping the younger grandkids climb “Grandpa Mountain”. He loved having his kids and grandkids tickle his neck. His laugh was contagious and his hugs really were the best.

Jeff was an incredible husband. Jeff and Tami loved each other deeply, they were inseparable and their devotion to and love for one another were an example to anyone who knew them. Every night when Jeff got home from work he and Tami, along with their little pal, Norman, would take their nightly trip to Maverik, usually followed by an evening watching the “Hallmark Channel”, “Expedition Bigfoot”, or “Homestead Rescue”.

He loved spending time outdoors, loved watching sports, and enjoyed life. Jeff was close to his brothers and loved spending as much time as he could with them. Jeff loved his extended family and always looked forward to the annual Drollinger Reunion, where his real talent as an auctioneer shined through.

To Jeff everything was “Awesome!” His love of life, his positive attitude in spite of all his medical challenges, and his cheerfulness will be dearly missed.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Tamara Graves of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Corey Boyd of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Jeremy Arbon of Boise, ID; son, Will (Katie) Empey of Dubois, ID; daughter, Jessy (Jordan) Brower of Burley, ID; son, Kenney (Markie) Graves of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Chad Empey of Seattle, WA; brother, Denton (Tracy) Graves of Pocatello, ID; brother Steve (Peggy) Graves of Pocatello, ID; brother, Brent Graves of Twin Falls, ID; brother, Perry (Rita) Graves of Idaho Falls, ID; brother Randy (Lori) Graves of Ammon, ID; 17 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and DeAnn Graves.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 15, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1345 Clarence Drive, with Bishop Jon Maughan officiating. The family will visit with friends Friday, March 14, 2025, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge, and Saturday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Annis Little Butte Cemetery.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Jeff’s co-workers and the leadership at Heartland Pharmacy for their amazing support and love over the last 7 years.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.