Lorie Graves

Lorie Lee Graves, 50, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home, leaving behind a legacy of love, advocacy, and unwavering generosity. Born on April 11, 1975, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Lorie was the beloved daughter of Linda and James (Jim) Pankau, Jr., both of St. Joseph.

Lorie was raised by Linda & Long Hoang in St. Joseph and Rolla, Mo where she found a passion in skating, becoming a competitive skater. She could always be found either at a skating competition or at the family’s skating rink. A graduate of Rolla High School, Lorie carried her compassionate spirit into every chapter of her life.

She married the love of her life, Steven Graves, on April 21, 2012, and together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and purpose in Carmel, Indiana.

Lorie was a devoted mother to Lauren Daniels of Rolla and Calem Graves, who resides at the home. She was a cherished Gigi to her three grandchildren, Layton, Layla, and Lillie, who brought immense joy to her life.

Her passion for helping others was most evident in her tireless advocacy for individuals with Autism. Lorie was a guiding light in local mom’s groups, offering heartfelt support and practical wisdom to families navigating similar journeys. Her fierce love and empathy made her a trusted confidante and a beacon of hope to many.

Lorie’s zest for life shone brightest during the holidays. She adored Halloween, birthdays, and Christmas, transforming each celebration into a magical experience. She would always make sure to celebrate birthdays with the perfect cake, crafted with care to make her children feel uniquely special. Christmas at Lorie’s was never ordinary, whether through perfectly selected gifts or playful scavenger hunts, she infused joy and wonder into every moment. Her thoughtfulness extended beyond family, as she always found the perfect gift for friends and neighbors, year after year.

To know Lorie was to be loved by her. She was a generous, compassionate, and fiercely devoted wife, daughter, mother, and Gigi. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire kindness, creativity, and connection.

Even when she faced extreme hardships, she would face them with a fighting spirit that defined her overall character. Whether it was recovering from a traumatic accident or fighting cancer, she gave her all. She wouldn’t stop fighting until she had achieved her goal.

She was proceeded in death by her father, Jim Pankau Jr. Survivors include her husband, Steven Graves of the home, daughter Lauren (Kyle) Daniels of Rolla, son Calem Graves of the home, grandchildren, Layton, Layla, and Lillie of Rolla and her parents, Linda and Long Hoang of Rolla.

Two celebrations of Lorie’s life will be held in Indiana and Rolla, which are to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Agape Therapeutic Horseback Riding Service in her honor.