Earl G. Graves, Sr., (1935 - 2020) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

Let the memory of Earl be with us forever.

85 years old
Born on January 9, 1935 in Brooklyn, New York, United States
Passed away on April 6, 2020 in New York, United States

This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Earl G. Graves, Sr. 85 years old, born on January 9, 1935 and passed away on April 6, 2020. We will remember him forever.

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April 12, 2020

In Gratitude for Earl Graves, Sr.

I am saddened at the passing of Earl Graves, Sr., a legend in the lives of so many Black Americans, and an instrumental person in mine. The first issue of Black Enterprise hit the newsstands in 1970, which also was the year that I graduated with a bachelor's degree. At that time, I didn't know anyone who worked in business. Businesses were not hiring Black American men or women in significant roles. Most professionals I was aware of were either the local doctor, lawyer, minister or teacher. While these roles were obviously important, they were not what I was looking for, I wanted a business career.
Black Enterprise opened the eyes of a generation to the few successful role models who were emerging, and the wide variety of opportunities that could be available to those of us who sought them. The publication provided insights and clarity into the possibilities in the world of business.
It continues to amaze me that someone I read about, in a publication so influential, became a friend, colleague, fellow Board member and avid supporter of my ascension to chairman and CEO of Aetna.
Generations were awakened and educated by Black Enterprise; and for that and many other things, we owe Earl a huge debt of gratitude. May he rest in peace. My condolences to the Graves family.

April 11, 2020

Thanks for the memories, from one Brooklynite to another you will be greatly missed. Thanks for all you did for our Black Culture.

April 11, 2020

When I first met Mr. Graves it was a great honor to meet a living Icon. After talking with him for a short period I realized how he gained the iconic status. He warm tone and his endearing personality made me a friend for life. He had a authentic genuine spirit. He will be truly missed. RIP Mr. Graves

April 11, 2020

Rest In Power, Mr. Graves. Honored to have met him on several occasions in my youth. Having an example of a Black multi-millionaire who wasn't an athlete was everything to me as a child. We didn't have a lot of superheros that represented us. Earl G. Graves Sr. was just that! I used to draw pictures of Mr. Graves with his signature "pork chop" sideburns.

My grandmother Arletha Allen (Vickers) worked for his magazine as the Editorial Business Supervisor. She ensured that my siblings and I grew up with Black Enterprise magazines. In addition, my brother Jamar and I were fortunate to partake in the Kidpreneur experience the company created. Major seeds that would assist in my growth to become the self-starter that I am today, and have been since I got my "first job" at 10 years old sweeping the parking lot for a KFC in Philly (1995). A job I talked my way into. The Manager was a cool dude and would pay me $30 out of pocket and give me free food.

I don't recall having a hustler spirit prior to learning about Black Enterprise magazine and Earl G. Graves Sr. My sincere condolences to his family and those who knew him best. We lost a pioneer and a legend.

April 11, 2020

This man and his magazine changed my life. He gave me role models. He gave me dreams. He gave me hope. Inspiration.
Thank you for changing me and a whole generation like me.

-Steve Thomas (Montclair, NJ / Evanston, IL)

April 11, 2020

It was my pleasure working with Earl Graves and the Black Enterprise family for decades. I extend to the family my sincere condolences. May you find comfort in the memories of Earl Grave, Sr.'s great and illustrious life. May God bless you as only He knows how.

Regards, Zeline Kelly Bates

April 11, 2020

Black Enterprise and Earl G. Graves, Sr have been a part of my life since my birth. Growing up with a second generation West Indian mom and dad in Brooklyn, NY, the magazine and Mr. Graves felt familiar and like family. Every month Black Enterprise would arrive in the mail and I would rush to read it. In words and images, Black Enterprise showed me that being a successful businessperson was not only possible but likely. It allowed me to never question that I could succeed.

Fast forward decades later and after attending Harvard Business School in the same class as Butch Graves, I had the pleasure of working for both Butch and Mr. Graves for two years. In many ways it was a dream come true and in all ways it was an experience I will never forget.

An icon has moved beyond this world but Earl G. Graves, Sr. left a legacy that will last for many, many, many decades to come.

Allison (Jones) Crooker (Brooklyn, NY / San Jose, CA)

April 11, 2020

Graves family and friends, you have my dearest, deepest, and sincerest sympathies. Please dear Lord, keep this family wrapped in your ever loving arms, and comfort the soul and spirit of the departed. I remember subscribing to my first subscription of "Black Enterprise" magazine, and how proud and excited I was to get it in the mail! I was in high school, and would eagerly check the mail to see if it had arrived...and when it did, WoW!!! I, first, just stared at the cover, then read it, a couple of times, thinking...this is Black Excellence and Black Royalty! Thank you Mr. Graves for all you did while you were here, and all your awesome legacy will continue to do...Inspire greatness! To GOD Be All the Glory! Amen!

April 11, 2020

My deepest condolences and sympathies to the Black Enterprise and Graves family, truly saddened by the loss of this American icon. I had the privilege to meet with Mr. Graves on several occasions and was always so impressed by the high standards he had for himself, his company and others. In keeping this standards so high, he, his business and his legacy will continue to inspire me and I am sure many others. Rest In Peace with the knowledge that your life was a bright light and a positive influence on the world, thank you Mr. Graves.
Respectfully,
Jesse

April 11, 2020

Mr. Graves, I remember meeting you at the Black Ski Challenge. I looked forward to participating in the Ski Challenge as well as the Tennis Event. You were such an inspiration to all. I remember meeting Darwin Davis and how much he also provided financial education at your events. May God bless the many contributions you made to the world and especially the black community. Thank you.

April 11, 2020

To a man well-admired, well-established, well-respected, well-lived, and most of all...well-loved for 85 blessed years. You will FOREVER be well-remembered! You were a man of great dignity, with morals, values and ethics that allowed you to be the patriarch of your precious family and held in such high regard. You were an Entrepreneur, Publisher, Businessman, Philanthropist, and advocate of African-American businesses - just to name a few. You were the founder of Black Enterprise magazine and Chairman of the media company Earl G. Graves, Ltd. You were a trailblazer and pillar of the African American community and of excellence! It was a pleasure and a privilege to have known you and I'm proud to have worked under your tutelage. Black Enterprise is the reason I became a homeowner at 30 and a businessowner in the years following. The memories I shared with you and the BE family - my forever extended family, will last a lifetime. Thank you for your leadership. You are deserving of the admiration, praise and accolades you have received throughout your lifetime. As an ex-employee of Black Enterprise, I am sincerely saddended and truly touched by your passing but God needed you now to blaze trails in heaven. Thank you for welcoming me into your BE home. Affectionately known to you as "the little one"...I will forever feel blessed to have been able to share years of your extraordinary legacy through my tenure at BE. I love you Mr G. May you rest peacefully ❤. My sincerest condolences to the entire Graves family. My heart is with you all ❤❤❤.

April 11, 2020

When attending the Black Ski Summit in the 80s and early 90s I remember Earl Graves, Sr. as a strong supporter of the national ski organization's mission to introduce youth of color to the ski industry and to assist youth of color in winter sports competition. He demonstrated great integrity and commitment as a business man.

April 11, 2020

He's from the same state I grew up in which is Bronx, New York, so I connected to him well. He gave a very inspiring speech at my college graduation which was Virginia State University back in 2001. I'm a big fan and follower of his Publication, "Black Enterprise." His legacy will live on.. Thank you Sir.

April 11, 2020

Earl Graves was someone who celebrated all of my professional achievements and championed my career throughout. He was an advisor who provided great insights and wisdom. He was a man who wanted to make sure that African Americans especially in business were acknowledged and celebrated. He made a powerful impact on the lives of so many of us. I will always be grateful and he will be missed.
Rest in Peace, Earl.

April 11, 2020

To Earl Graves family . I am sorry about the lost we keep the Graves family and God Bless!

April 11, 2020

Mr. Graves,

Thank you for your transformative career and for being an inspiration to not only me, but countless others around the world. May you Rest In Peace and light perpetual shine upon you. Amen. Sleep well, Sir.

Austin

April 10, 2020

I became aware of Mr. Graves in 1971 while attending Pensacola Junior College.in Florida, at which time, I subscribed to Black Enterprise magazine. Then in 1975 while living in Washington DC., I started to date a young lady from Baltimore MD who told me she knew the Graves family and in her teens had baby sit their 2 oldest sons. In 1977, the young lady and I moved to New York City and she went to visit the Graves several times and would tell me what a wonderful family they were. I thank you for the opportunity to reflect and share. Also, I thank my wonderful significant friend for sharing information with me concerning the Graves Family. May Mr and Ms. Graves and my wonderful Significant Friend all Rest in Peace.

April 10, 2020

I never had an opportunity to meet Mr. Graves in person, but I felt his presence, energy and vision through every issue of Black Enterprise magazine I read. His vision gave us hope and unlimited possibilities of what we can accomplish. Whenever I was at a low point, I got reenergized either reading or seeing him in an interview, he always gave me hope. Thank you to you and your family for sharing the magnificence of your father, leader and his vision for people of color as entrepreneurs not only domestically, but globally.

April 10, 2020

Mr. Graves impact will last a lifetime for me. I had the privilege of working with his Events team on the Teenpreneurs event at the Entrepreneurs Conference for several years. Not only did I gain friends for life but also learned first hand about what Black economic empowerment REALLY meant from his formal and informal speeches. I remember when we were at G&T and Katrina hit. Mr. Graves shared the somber news and did what I haven't seen since - gave us strict marching orders for what we needed to do and immediately took action himself. It wasn't just lip service. He directly challenged the status quo to take notice and take action to serve.
I have an amazing pic with Mr Graves, Mrs Graves and my Mom at one of the Conferences. While they are all resting with the ancestors, I will miss them dearly on this Earthly realm.

April 10, 2020

Earl Graves was a great pioneer and inspiration for all Americans. His magazines and enterprises forged the way for a more diverse and better society. His legacy is not only embodied by the companies he created but by his family. The deepest of condolences to the entire Graves family.

April 10, 2020

You enriched our lives...now Rest In Power King of the media world xxx

April 10, 2020

I remember Mr. Graves as the guest speaker at the Black Business Association of Memphis Tennessee.
Very inspiring and motivated as the organization moved forward on his words.
Rest in peace Mr. Earl Graves.

April 10, 2020

My father was self employed he was a construction contractor and he had a subscription to Black Enterprise when I was a young girl. I never read it but I remember the magazine in our house.

April 10, 2020

It has been my honor to have known Earl when he taught as professor at Morgan State University where I served as Visiting Associate Professor of Public Policy, working under then-Dean Vernon Gray. Earl launched his business, Black Enterprise, shortly thereafter, and I became a devoted follower from that day forward, and an admirer for my entire professional career.
- Reginald Williams, Consultant to Corporate Management, Supplier Diversity

April 10, 2020

I ask God to bless the Graves family at this time. Black Enterprise has been my go to for business news since I graduated college. How to Succeed in Business Without Being White still sits on my bookshelf. Thank you Mr Graves for the insight, wisdom and fact based news.

April 10, 2020

Even though I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Graves, his impact on my family was immeasurable. My late father became a charter subscriber to Black Enterprise magazine a few months after he was hired as the first African American mid-level manager employed by his federal agency. The extreme harassment and social isolation that he experienced in this position was challenging and at times, even physically dangerous.

My father savored the arrival of each new issue of Black Enterprise and enthusiastically purchased gift subscriptions for friends and relatives. This incredible magazine was a life-saving beacon in the wilderness for him and the brave vanguard that integrated organizations during the early seventies. He continued to excel in the face of adversity by using information and contacts gleaned from its pages and began his MBA studies. In 1971, my father filed a discrimination complaint against his employer which eventually developed into a major class-action lawsuit. Years later, the United States Supreme Court denied cert. and my father and his co-plaintiff won a precedent-setting case that enabled federal employees to obtain certain legal protections that still exist today.

Through his numerous efforts, Mr. Earl E. Graves, Sr. inspired many African American men, women and youth to embrace higher education and economic empowerment. He certainly inspired my father. I don't know if they ever crossed paths (they shared certain acquaintances in common) but one of my father's high school graduation gifts to me was my first subscription to Black Enterprise magazine. Mr. Grave's vision and fierce determination are embodied in the company that he founded but the greatest legacy that he leaves behind is his family. Paging through those first issues, my seven year-old self was awestruck by his cool muttonchops but as I grew older, what also impressed me was the obvious love and affection that he had for those closest to his heart. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Thank you for allowing him to share his gifts with us.

April 10, 2020

First and foremost I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the entire Graves family at the loss of Mr. Graves who was such an inspiring and impactful figure not only in my life but in the lives of so many around the world.

Secondly, I studied and majored in business at the University of South Carolina thanks in large part to Mr. Graves and his Black Enterprise Magazine! I had gotten a subscription to BE in 1974 upon graduating high school and his magazine gave me a vision of what could be achieved by obtaining knowledge in the field of business. Without Mr. Graves' influence I never would have had the opportunity to work for business icons like Jack Welch at GE or having run my own business, etc. His commitment to "black enterprise" is perhaps the single most influential factor to overall black GDP in the past 50 years.

Lastly, I once had the pleasure of being at a gate in O'Hare and who gets off the plane but Mr. Graves himself! I was surprised as he just began to casually stroll towards baggage claim without an entourage, etc. So I began to follow him wanting to introduce myself to him and to let him know how much he and BE meant to me. But after a few minutes I regrettably talked myself out of it. Then again (I now realize) that he saw me, in fact he saw all of us black business travelers with our various attaches', etc., and he knew us too...because we all were a product of his making. And I know that he was proud of us all.

Thank God for the life, the living and now the legacy of Mr. Earl G. Graves, Sr. May he rest in peace in the arms of the Savior!

April 10, 2020

Earl Graves was a close friend and colleague; an outstanding entrepreneur and an empathetic leader whose legacy will endure for ages. Working with him was a unique privilege. He will be sorely missed!

April 10, 2020

To the Butch and the family. I am truly saddened by the passing of your father, Mr. Earl G. Graves. I sincerely appreciated it when I first met in Florida many decades ago. He stopped and spoke to me at length about my cosmetics business. I was inspired then and even now 40 Yrs later to stay the course. His smile, sense of humor and presence will be missed. Rest in Peace Mr. Graves. You will surely be missed.

April 10, 2020

OMG. Earl Graves, wife and Carolyn Odim was so instrumental to my growth and my career. I worked in Public Relations in the 80's for Black Enterprise and typed many of his speeches. My dad was so proud I worked for an African American Company. He was ecstatic. Back then you couldn't eat at your desk and when Mr. Graves came around you better not have food anywhere. He was respected. Mr. Graves was a pioneer we all needed to be listening to his wisdom and advice about financial planning. He alone has left a mark that can't ever be erased. He magnified our businesses, our greatness and showed is all no matter what, we can be successful. I'm sad for this great loss but he raised great children and I know they will carry the torch well. Hugs and love to you all, I'm very sorry for your lost. He will be greatly missed.

April 10, 2020

I am a Public Figure in the Greater Atlanta Area I want to leave my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

April 10, 2020

To the family.. A legacy that will LIVE forever!!! Thank you for sharing him with the rest of us..

April 10, 2020

R.I.P. Mr. Graves. You were truly a trailblazer and an inspiration!
#BlackEnterprise was the first magazine I ever saw my Dad read (and faithfully subscribe to). It inspired him to become his own boss and open his own gas station and auto repair shop back in the late 70s. It also allowed him to employ his younger brother, who had just returned from the Vietnam war and couldn't otherwise find meaningful work.

April 10, 2020

My condolences to the Family. I first met Earl Graves while I was in College and Black Enterprise Magazine was birthed. It was published at a time when I was majoring in Business Administration. My Advisor, Alvin Puryear talked about his friend Earl all the time. The magazine created a new community of black business owners and executives. He showed who we were and what we could be. Rest in Peace.

April 10, 2020

Mr. Graves has been an inspiration for me since as early as I can remember. I always looked forward to reading BE. The only place where you could see the genius, creativity, tenacity, business prowess and pride of our people. Each issue made you want to do more with your life. BE always stayed true to the vision of Mr. Graves, to uplift the Black race. He is a true African American hero and will always have a special place in my heart. Peace & Love, ~P

April 10, 2020

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Graves early on in my career and always admired him. As a member of the Black press myself (New York Amsterdam News), his passing is a major blow to our industry. He will all never be forgotten.

April 10, 2020

Today I am saddened by the passing of a true pioneer, Mr. Earl G. Graves, Sr. As a kid growing up in Cleveland, OH and being interested in publishing there were two men who served as a source of inspiration for me and from afar were my mentors. Those men were John H. Johnson the founder & publisher of Ebony and Mr. Graves the founder & publisher of Black Enterprise! Imagine after moving to New York having the opportunity to meet someone you admired from afar for so many years to eventually developing a relationship that included getting together for breakfast 3 to 4 times a years at one of his favorite "power breakfast" spots on Park Avenue! When American Legacy celebrated its 10th Anniversary in 2005 I received a beautiful letter from Mr. Graves recognizing our milestone. I was also extremely proud to receive the inaugural Earl G. Graves, Sr Entrepreneurial Award from the African American Chamber of Commerce of Westchester which he presented himself, in 2004. I mention this because you never know what kid you might inspire even if it is from afar. Mr. Graves certainly did that for me and I'm sure countless others. My condolences to the Graves family and to the Black Enterprise family. May this true pioneer, Mr. Graves rest in peace!

April 10, 2020

As a young man after college Black Enterprise was the first magazine I subscribed to. Since I was the first person to graduate from college in my family, I actually did not have a real career direction in mind but Black Enterprise showed me what was possible. BE was a wonderful place to see African American entrepreneurs and black corporate leaders. I was inspired by Mr. Graves personally and his publication. I actually wrote him a letter regarding how motivating the magazine was for me as a young man. He wrote me back and basically thanked me. I have mentioned this to Butch a number of times because as a young African American I thought this was quiet amazing to receive a letter from Mr. Earl Graves. I have since had a chance to meet him and to be recognized by BE twice in the top 100 African Americans in Corporate America. The exposure to black excellence via Black Enterprise helped me to know what was possible as it relates to my personal career and I am so very thankful for Earl Graves.

April 10, 2020

I am truly honored to have been part of the Black Enterprise family. Mr. Graves was an incredible role model. I learned so much while working at B.E., and credit my success to the opportunity he was able to provide young African Americans, in the media industry. I'm deeply disheartened by your loss and want you to know that Mr. Graves will live on in all the people he touched and inspired. He will forever be in our hearts.

April 10, 2020

The distinguished Mr. Graves was my Virginia Union University (VUU) class of 1976 commencement speaker. Rarely are the words of graduation speakers remembered, and don't remember his message verbatim. I do however remember the essence of what shared with VUU's (a small HBCU in Richmond, Virginia) class of 1976... we could accomplish anything with hard work, passion, and a commitment to excellence...there were no short cuts in life. My condolences to the family and my prayers for his transition from labor to reward.

April 10, 2020

Black Enterprise woke me up to the greatness of black people. He was an inspiration and I am sad.

April 10, 2020

RIP. I was a proud subscriber to his magazine. His influence cannot be measured. Family, carry on his work by creating a summit of HBCUs, and convince them not to graduate any more students without teaching them wealth building, and giving back. This is something Mr. Graves would highly approve of. There could be no better tribute to him than this.

April 10, 2020

I was first introduced to Black Enterprise Magazine from my Father, may he Rest In Peace... He was adamant about learning and growing and a staunch advocate of Black owned Businesses. I will, like many others be forever grateful for the example Earl Graves, Sr set as a visionary. May he Rest In Power...

April 10, 2020

Mr. Graves kindness and contributions were felt by so many. May you continue to honor his enormous heart and generosity. Condolences are sent to his family. He exemplified the measure of a man. Hugs

April 10, 2020

I remember an Article by Mr. Graves & His Sons, Honoring his Wife &
Their Mother - It was Extremely Touching & Beautiful.

April 10, 2020

Mr. Earl Graves set a standard for people of color to understand the principles of business as it relates to the culture of that individual. He redefined unity for minority entrepreneurs to work collectively as specialized industries within a diverse economy. An angel of God, Mr. Graves uplifted the spirits of Black Americans and change the structure and approach for success. My fondest memory of Mr. Graves was when he covered the National Brotherhood of Skiers Black Summit in 1976 at Sun Valley, Idaho per my request. Mr. Graves intuitively dissected the economic impact of the Black Ski Summit and redirected the approach for future Summits to gain sponsorships and benefits. RIP

April 10, 2020

It has been my honor to have known Mr. Graves for many decades. His extraordinary leadership truly impacted my life. His dedication and commitment to civil rights for all, paved the way for future generations to achieve success. As I have told him many times, "Mr. Graves, you wear your blackness well". Until we meet again, thank you, for all you have given to us.

April 10, 2020

The first time I accidentally came upon the Black Enterprise magazine 30+ years ago I haven’t stopped learning from the articles written to enlighten the community. This magazine was intentional in educating the black community. Thank you Mr Graves, you have left an indelible foot Print. Now may you Rest in Eternal Peace..

April 10, 2020

As a teenager and then a college student in Texas, I always marveled about the concept of Black Enterprise magazine. Little did I know then that its founder and publisher would have a direct impact on my career.

Decades later, when Mr. Graves was on the Chrysler board of directors, his advocacy for diversity and inclusion was the undeniable factor that led to that company hiring me onto its legal staff. After I and another attorney doubled that company's African-American population of lawyers in 1997, my work duties included a project for which Black Enterprise featured me and two other colleagues in June 1998 (p.332). But perhaps most memorable was an early winter evening when he was at Chrysler headquarters for a meeting, as he spotted me in a hallway wearing a cold-weather hat, jokingly scolding me for bundling up as if expecting a blizzard.

So many of us owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. Graves and the talented team that he built at Black Enterprise, along with the extraordinary network of achievers whose stories Black Enterprise brought into our consciousness. We could always count on Black Enterprise as a source of inspiration and mentorship for taking on tasks that generations before had no opportunity to tackle. Together, we have learned valuable lessons from both failures and successes, and refined a solutions-based worldview that anticipates and overcomes challenges.

To the many words that have been expressed to the Graves family and loved ones, I would add my own: we are all the better for this man's life's work.

- Roy Collins, III

April 10, 2020

I am saddened to pass on the news that my friend Earl Graves has passed on. I first met Earl at Summit '75 in Sun Valley. At that time, 4 Seasons West Ski Club (4SW) was a social group being run by Flavius and me out of an account at Security National Bank. On a couple of chairlift rides up the mountain Earl coached me as to why 4SW future was dependent on our becoming a charitable 501-c corporation. 2 years later 4SW was incorporated.

Earl and his magazine Black Enterprise became Black Summit sponsors for the next few years. His experience with the NBS led him to create the Black Enterprise Ski Week. As I recall, it competed with Summit for about 5 years. Earl's ski week was a elegant affair which included high price reg fees in return for elegant lodging, business seminars, free ski lessons, sumptuous buffets and free alcohol. It was a great "Black Bourgeoisie" experience. Greta reminded me of a Summit party he gave at Snowmass. It was during Pres. Clinton's inauguration. Earl had printed up t-shirts that said: "I was invited but I rather be at Summit". Fun and business was our mutual hallmark.

I last visited Earl in Sag Harbor, NY, a few years ago, at a reunion of the Centurions, my teenage social club. At that time, I was told that he was suffering from Alzheimers and he was assisted by a full time attendant. Our conversation that night never revealed any of that. His recollection of our fun times together was flawless.

My friend is gone and I will miss him greatly. Prayers for his family.

Ben Finley
NBS Co-Founder

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Recent Tributes

April 6

What a great family man of vision, who pioneered a way forward that inspires so many today. His legacy will always be a beacon to all who encountered him and to those who are getting to know him through his works and service to the black community.

April 6

On this day of remembrance, I recognize a man of tremendous honor, Mr. Graves. Rest Well, soldier.

April 6

Earl's wisdom and leadership ability are sorely missed.

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Gallery

Earl Graves, Clarence Avant and Maurice Cox, 2011 Greenwich, CT

To our good Brother Earl G. Graves, Sr., the undeniable Bridge Builder and Quintessential Man.

I had the honor of MCing with Mr. Graves the 100th bday of A.G.Gaston. Thanks for all you achieved!

A priceless moment many years ago at Verizon's CITE Conference. Thank You for sharing your wisdom.

Celebrating a life that opened doors through telling our business stories. Art by Christopher Jones

Fun times reminiscing about ΩΨΦ in Martha’s Vineyard at the Inkwell, Summer 2013

Jordan23 Event at Bloomingdale's (Gerard on left)

Sharing a wonderful memory of Mr. Graves and myself in front of the magazine layout map!

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His Life

EARL GRAVES SR., FOUNDER OF BLACK ENTERPRISE, PASSES AWAY AT 85

April 8, 2020

BLACK ENTERPRISE Founder and Publisher Earl G. Graves, Sr., the quintessential entrepreneur who created a vehicle of information and advocacy that has inspired four generations of African Americans to build wealth through entrepreneurship, career advancement and money management, has died. According to his son, BLACK ENTERPRISE CEO Earl “Butch” Graves Jr., he passed away quietly at 9:22 p.m. on April 6, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Graves was 85.

Graves was widely considered to be the ultimate champion of black business, launching BLACK ENTERPRISE in 1970 to not only chronicle the rise of African American entrepreneurs, but also provide the tools for African Americans to succeed in the business mainstream and “achieve their measure of the American dream.”

In his award-winning, now classic, business bestseller, How To Succeed In Business Without Being White, Graves stated his life-defining purpose for founding BLACK ENTERPRISE in simple, direct terms: “The time was ripe for a magazine devoted to economic development in the African American community. The publication was committed to the task of educating, inspiring and uplifting its readers. My goal was to show them how to thrive professionally, economically and as proactive, empowered citizens.”

Driven by that mission, Graves became a trailblazing entrepreneur in his own right, building BLACK ENTERPRISE from a single-magazine publishing company 50 years ago, to a diversified multimedia business spreading the message of financial empowerment to more than 6 million African Americans through print, digital, broadcast and live-event platforms. As such, BLACK ENTERPRISE was one of two companies that would appear on the BE 100s—the publication’s annual rankings of the nation’s largest black-owned businesses—each of its 47 years. At one point, Graves would operate two companies on the list, including Pepsi-Cola of Washington, DC, one of the nation’s largest soft-drink distributors owned by African Americans.

Graves’ influence and reach also extended into the mainstream of corporate America. One of the few African Americans to serve on the boards of major corporations such as American Airlines, Daimler Chrysler, Rohm & Hass and Federated Department Stores (Macy’s), he was a staunch advocate for African American inclusion in the C-Suite and corporate governance. Graves was also a tireless champion of major corporations doing business with black-owned companies.

Beyond business, Graves was a force in politics, civil rights, and philanthropy. In fact, he played a pivotal role in galvanizing support for the election of the first African American president of the United States, Barack Obama, through his endorsement in BLACK ENTERPRISE and service as a surrogate campaigning on his behalf. Before that, Graves also championed the historic presidential bids of Rev. Jesse Jackson. Moreover, his fight for racial justice and economic parity earned him the NAACP Spingarn Medal, the organization’s highest honor, in 1999.

Graves was also known for his dedication to family, and especially to his wife Barbara Kydd Graves, who passed away in 2012. Together, they raised three sons, Earl Jr., Johnny and Michael, and were blessed with eight grandchildren.

Born in 1935, Graves reaches the pinnacle of power from humble beginnings in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York. It was in that community where he learned the lessons of hard work and perseverance from his parents, Earl Godwin and Winifred Sealy Graves. After graduating from a Morgan State University with a B.A. in economics, he served two years as an officer in the Army, and held jobs in law enforcement and real estate. In 1965, he joined the staff of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy as his administrative assistant. When Kennedy was assassinated in 1968, he decided to start a publication that would provide blacks with the pathway to go into entrepreneurship.

He wrote: “BLACK ENTERPRISE was just a modest magazine when I founded it—just me, a few brave advertisers like Pepsi, ExxonMobil and General Motors; and a small but spirited staff. And one other person who did just about everything there is to do to put out a magazine—my wife, Barbara.”

The young publisher managed to gain a $250,000 loan from Chase Manhattan Bank and proved so masterful at selling and running the magazine that it became profitable in 10 months — enabling Graves to repay the loan to the major financial institution.

With his wife Barbara at his side, he grew the magazine into one of the nation’s most successful and respected. The world first discovered such business luminaries as Oprah Winfrey, former American Express CEO Kenneth Chenault, billionaire dealmaker Bob Johnson, and the late financier Reginald F. Lewis on the pages of BLACK ENTERPRISE. In fact, Robert Smith. the billionaire CEO of Vista Equity Partners, like so many successful black entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, admitted that he switched careers to high finance after reading BLACK ENTERPRISE.

“The truth of the matter is that we are humbled by the achievements of the talented people we report on,” Graves wrote. “We are in awe, still, by the courage it takes to put oneself on the line in an unmerciful marketplace.”

Hundreds of thousands express awe and gratitude for the role he played and example of excellence and achievement he set for generations to come.

AN AMERICAN ICON HAS GONE HOME TO GLORY ...

April 10, 2020

As a life-long journalist, I can honestly say that Mr. Earl Graves has had a lasting impact on my career, along with other young African-American journalists entering the industry in the 1970s. It was a time when Black Enterprise magazine was a stalwart in national publishing annals, and knowing that our esteemed Mr. Graves was at the helm - made us all feel a sense of pride, knowing that he was a modern reflection of Black History. Today, we honor Mr. Graves and his visionary exploits amid unimaginable unfair odds. Rest In Peace, Mr. Graves you truly earned your place with the Lord. --- Timothy Cox, National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Hanover, Maryland.

April 10, 2020

Last night (4/6/2020) the world lost an icon. Mr. Earl G Graves, Sr. made his transition to the other side of eternity. Mr. Graves as I & so many addressed him was a man of great stature, who commanded attention upon entering a room. His business acumen, style and demeanor are characteristics that I incorporated into my lifestyle. He taught many either up close or from a distance. You admired him for not only what he did but for the man he was. I had the opportunity of working at Black Enterprise (the company he & his wife, Mrs. Barbara Graves launched in 1970) for 13 yrs but worked with Mr. G directly for 7 years, until he retired. Within those 7 years, the lessons he taught me about sales, business & style were invaluable. He had a penchant for finance & sartorial elegance, only wore Purple Label suits and he had a great sense of humor, sharp! My first 3 hour in-store event with BE was at Bloomingdale's (59th & Lex) for the launch of the Jordan23 clothing line (back in 2002). My colleague Eugene Metcalf sold the beverage sponsor, Moet. The pix is from the event (Gary Clark on right....thx for the pix G-Clark!). At the time, Mr. Graves was on the board of Federated Department Stores, so he made sure he supported & brought key board members....Mr. Graves stole the show. The next day (bright & early) he called me into his office. At the time, I wasn't sure if this was a good thing or bad...so, I called my wife & gave her the heads-up (). As I approached his desk he said go into the living room, he walked in behind me & we sat down together. Not knowing what to expect, cool, calm G, was a little jittery to say the least. But he said, that was a fabulous event, he inquired and was told a couple thousand dollars worth of apparel was purchased within the three hours. He shook my hand, said great job & gave me a signed bottle of Dom Perignon.....that I've cherished ever since. That's the man Mr. G was...always had your back & for that, I've always admired & appreciated him. Rest is Glory sir....your dash is filled beyond measure!! #MrG, #Respect, #Icon, #BE, @blackenterprise, #RIP, #GravesFamily Johnny Graves, Caroline Clarke Graves

Love,

A member of the BE Family

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