Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Melva “Ann” McGraw, 82, of Lyle, Washington, passed away peacefully on Feb. 5, 2026, at Skyline Hospital in White Salmon, Washington.
Ann was born July 18, 1943, in White Salmon to Melvin Walker and Minnie Margaret Hildenbrand. She was raised in White Salmon with her siblings Charlene, Beulah, Melvin, and George, and remained deeply connected to her family and community throughout her life.
On Dec. 10, 1960, she married Charles Dewey McGraw. Together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and hard work. Ann was a devoted homemaker, loving wife, and nurturing mother. She took pride in caring for her home and children and found joy in picking fruit and appreciating the natural beauty of the Columbia Gorge.
Ann is survived by her husband, Charles Dewey McGraw; her children, Charles “Lorren” McGraw, Robert and Marlin McGraw, Rodney “Jean” McGraw, and David and Angela Landry; 19 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and her sister, Beulah Dallas.
She was preceded in death by her son, Jerry McGraw; her parents; and her siblings Melvin Walker, Charlene Lemley, and George Walker.
A funeral service was held Feb. 14 at the Lyle Celebration Center, 715 Washington St., Lyle. A graveside service followed at Snowden Cemetery.
Ann will be remembered for her kindness, quiet strength, and deep love for her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Columbia Gorge News, Feb. 25, 2026
To plant a tree in memory of Melva McGraw as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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