Arthur Eugene "Geno" Graves Sr. of Rockford departed this earthly life April  4, 2026. He was born October 17, 1953 in Rockford IL the son of Chester A. and Esther Graves. He attended Auburn High School, later to receive his GED and received welding training. Arthur loved to travel, listen to music, dress to the 9,  paint, and being around his family.

Arthur leaves to cherish many loving memories, his companion of many years, Vivian Taylor; four sons, Arthur Merritt, Andrew (Laura) Tess, Antoine Tempel and Deshawn Hall; five daughters, April (Reginald) Cauthen, Jasmine (Phillip Horton) Graves, Noni (Shawn Clark) Graves, Antonia (Thomas) Jones, Alexaundria Graves and Amantha Tempel; 27 grandchildren; a host great grandchildren; brother, Hashim Kamau; four sisters, Gloria Hyatte, Angela (Kevin Ellis ) Graves, Artina (Dante Richardson) Jewett and Jamila Muhammad; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; grandson, Ja'Khi Mitchell Graves; brothers, Chester Graves, Steven Graves, and Gary Graves.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.  Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.