Margaret Ann Cox Graben

Margaret Ann Cox Graben, age 85, passed away peacefully February 25, 2020 due to diabetes and congestive heart failure. She was born March 21, 1934 in Pulaski, Virginia to Blake and Bessie Cox. She married her best friend and love of her life in November of 1952, Leon Ross Graben, who preceded her in death in 2014. At the age of 19, Margaret moved to Washington DC and worked in secretarial pool for J. Edgar Hoover, Director of Federal Bureau of Investigation. After meeting and marrying Ross, she dedicated her life to her family and friends. In 1964 she and Ross moved their family to the Mississippi Gulf Coast where Margaret became involved with Gulfport School District. She served as President of the Anniston Elementary PTA while her boys went there and later “taught” Me-ology when her grandson attended Anniston. She also obtained her Real Estate license. Margaret loved to cook and was exceptionally good at it. Family and friends always thought she should open a restaurant. Family continue to make her favorite recipes. She especially enjoyed playing bridge and cards with her beloved friends and entertaining at holidays. Most of all she loved her family and instilled in her sons strong values that have served them well. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Margaret is survived by her beloved sons, Stephen (Nancy), Phillip (Susan) and Joseph (fiancée Sharen). Her cherished grandchildren Andrew (Lexie), LeeAnn Dujmov (Mike), Blake (Kasey), Katelyn Hawkins (Paul), Kristy Graben, Mamie Graben (fiancé Michael), and J.R. Graben. Great-grandchildren Kristyn (Stephen), Carter, Braelyn, Charles and Piper. And great-great grandchild Addilynn. All of these she loved deeply and they brought joy to her.. There will be a private gathering at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home in Gulfport to celebrate her life followed by burial at Biloxi National Cemetery. Family would like to thank all her friends for loving and supporting her. Special thanks to Jim & Angie Haupt, Norma Wallace and Danita Edwards. Thanks also to the staff and physicians at Memorial Hospital in Gulfport and One Magnolia Assisted Living Facility.