Betty Ann Windhorst Graves

Betty Ann Windhorst Graves passed away on August 28, 2026 in Tallahassee, Florida where she has called home for 33 years. She was born on September 12, 1935 to parents August and Frieda Brenner Windhorst in Fort Wayne, Indianna. She graduated from Concordia Lutheran High School and later moved to the Brooksville, FL area where she became one of the famous Weeki Wachee mermaids. It was during this time she met the love of her life, James Ray Graves. She pretended to struggle with building a campfire and the handsome trooper offered his assistance. Their love story continued during his transfer to Largo, Florida and they would soon begin raising three beautiful children. Following Ray’s sudden passing, Betty moved to Tallahassee to be near her sons and their growing families. She worked as a legal secretary for many years and upon retirement became an IFAS designated Master Gardener. A lot of her tender loving care can still be seen while visiting Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park. Strong in her faith, if you asked her about one of her most purposeful achievements Betty would probably tell you about her efforts as a founding member of Faith Lutheran Church of Tallahassee, which continues to thrive and minister to the community over 30 years after its establishment. Survivors include her children, Cheryl Ann Williamson (Tony Williamson), Gary Ray Graves (Leticia Graves) and Glenn August Graves (Danielle Graves); grandchildren Tami Boudot, Tyler Dixon, Gracie Hale, Marcella Howard, Gus Graves and Julia Graves; and one great grandson; sister Irmgard Vest and a host of extended family members whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in passing by her parents and her husband James Ray Graves. A memorial service will be held at her church home, Faith Lutheran Church of Tallahassee, at 1:00 pm on what would have been her 91st birthday: Saturday, September 12, 2026. Betty will later be interred at Tallahassee National Cemetery with Ray Graves. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Faith Lutheran Church building fund. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Betty Ann Windhorst Graves

September 12, 1935 - August 28, 2026