Thomas Clark Graves was born in Penobsquis on July 28, 1942, he was the son of the late Melvin and Delores (Munroe) Graves.   Clark grew up in Sussex alongside his siblings: David, John and Beatrice and from a young age knew the importance of being involved in his community. He donated a lot of his time and hard work to being a Scout and was recognized when he was awarded both the Queen’s Scout Award and the Bronze Arrowhead award. Like many other young men, upon graduating from Sussex High School in 1960, he enlisted in the Air Force and was given the opportunity to serve his country in Germany. While he was deployed, he continued to be active with the Scout community, serving as a Scout Leader. It was his dedication to service that led Clark to learn Russian, in order to serve as a communications officer during his time in the Air Force. He would also go on to be stationed in Bermuda as well as several places across Canada. During his time serving in the Air Force, Clark met and later married his beautiful bride, Patricia Holden on July 19, 1965. Together they had three wonderful children: Trisha, Tracey and Clark. In 1975, the family moved back to Sussex and Clark got to work on building their house on Floral Ave; a house that continues to remain in the family today. After returning to Sussex, Clark found work in the parts department at Royal Pontiac. Later, he would go on to serve as superintendent of transportation for the local school district. His dedication to the Scouts followed him back to Sussex, as he continued to volunteer and make them an important part of his life. He also held an active role with the Saint John Ambulance and was awarded membership in the Venerable Order of Saint John. In addition to actively serving his country and community, Clark found enjoyment in many things. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball for the Sussex League, woodworking, playing the violin and guitar, and was an avid outdoorsman. He also had great compassion and love for animals, especially his horse, Whisky. Clark was a strong, compassionate, kind and caring man. Whether it was his love for his wife and children or his country and community, he gave every ounce of who he was to the people and things that he loved. He is survived by his children: Trisha Graves-Mersereau, Tracey and Scott Cessford and Clark Graves; his brother, David and Laurel Graves; his sister, Beatrice and Eric Sproule; his grandchildren: Jessica, Joshua and Ryan and his best friend, Mel and Sharon Harris; as well as several nieces and nephews. Mr. Thomas Clark Graves of Sussex, passed away at the Kiwanis Nursing Home on September 28, 2016 at the age of 74. He is predeceased by his brother, John and by his beloved wife, Patricia (Holden) Graves who passed away in 2014. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, (506-433-1176) where visitation will be held on Friday evening from 6:00 to 8:00pm. The Royal Canadian Legion Sussex Branch #20 will hold a tribute Friday evening at 5:45. A service celebrating Tom's life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at 11:00am. If you are considering making a memorial donation the family has recommended the Alzheimer's Society. If you are unable to join us for the service, please copy and paste the link below into your URL bar, to be redirected to our LiveStream. https://livestream.com/wallacefuneralhome/events/6457405