Dr. Loneta Graves

Dr. E. Loneta Graves, born January 23, 1923 in Hosston, LA, daughter of William Hardy Graves and Fannie Lee Ballard, passed away September 11, 2011 at the age of 88. Best remembered for her 34 year career of what was to become Northwestern State University, she began work in the auditor’s office and would go on to retire as the first female vice president of a public college or university in the state of Louisiana as Vice President of Financial and Administrative Affairs, as well as EEO Officer and Appointing Authority for Civil Services. She held professional membership in Phi Kappa Phi, Pi Omega Pi, Kappa Delta Pi and Delta Kappa Gamma. In 1987 she was awarded the status of Vice President Emeritus from NSU, only to be followed up by an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities in 1992 and acknowledged as a Golden Jubilee Alumnus in 2005. After that she was enrolled in the “N” Club for distinguished service in 2008. Loneta traveled extensively in the U.S. and abroad before and after her retirement. In her later years, Dr. Graves was very active in programs to aid the elderly such as S.A.L.T. As well as maintained a connection with Northwestern employees on the universities workings and state policies. An ardent sports enthusiast her entire life, her last years were filled with an enjoyment of Lady Demon basketball program and the personal relationships that developed with many players and the coaching staff. She was responsible for obtaining the first scholarship funding in the state for women’s basketball. Well known and respected in her community by many, she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and their children from Texas to Virginia, as well as her “adopted” son, Andrew E. Nahm of New Orleans, LA. Friends may visit from 5 pm until 9 pm on Friday, September 16, 2011 at Blanchard – St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches, LA. A committal service will be held on Monday, September 19, 2011 at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Metairie, LA where Dr. Graves will be placed alongside her beloved sister, Mrs. Flora G. Bradley. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the NSU Foundation with the designation of Women’s Athletic Scholarship fund.