Therese Bernadette “Tootsie” Gravely

Therese Bernadette “Tootsie” Gravely
February 13, 1939 – March 5, 2025

Our cherished Therese Bernadette “Tootsie” Gravely peacefully departed this life at home on March 5, 2025, at the age of 86.
Born on February 13, 1939, Tootsie grew up with a warm and generous heart that would define her entire life. She met the love of her life, John Peyton, when they were both students at York High School, and from that moment on, they were sweethearts. Their love story spanned 67 wonderful years of marriage, filled with family, laughter and unwavering love. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three daughters, Kathy Melo (Mike), Emmy Jacobs, and Mary Odell (Grant), who were the pride and joy of her life.
Tootsie’s work ethic and dedication were evident throughout her life. Her first job was at the Yorktown Courthouse. Tootsie also enjoyed a second career as a rural mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, where she became a beloved and respected member of her workplace community and was loved by many on her mail route, before retiring.
A devoted mother, she was an active volunteer at her daughters’ schools, always eager to support their activities and classmates. She took special joy in leading their Brownie troops, ensuring every child felt included, encouraged, and loved.
Beyond her dedication to work and family, Tootsie had a sharp sense of humor that could light up any room. She loved to laugh and bring joy to others with her wit and playful spirit, and she loved to share a story and could captivate an audience! She was also a dedicated sports fan, cheering passionately for her favorite teams Duke, NY Giants, and the Nationals; but nothing mattered more than the sport played by her grandchildren—Tootsie was their biggest supporter, showing up to every sporting event, rain or shine, hot or cold. She cheered for her own grandchildren as well as the other children competing.
Tootsie was an avid bowler, participating in competitive leagues for years, and her bowling teams became like a second family. She treasured those friendships and the joy the game brought her.
She was also a talented and adventurous cook. You could always find her in the kitchen trying out new recipes, and no one ever left her table hungry—she welcomed everyone with open arms and a warm plate of food. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and love, and her meals were made with the same care and generosity that she showed in every aspect of her life.
She was a loving grandmother to six adored grandchildren, Katelyn Byrd (Bill), Meredith Cline (Mitch), Annie Francis (Zack), Alley Odell, Mallory Odell and preceded in death by Jack Jacobs, and a proud great-grandmother to Bennett Byrd and Lyman Francis.
Tootsie was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Wilhelmina Furtado, her stepfather, Virgil Lamb, and seven siblings: Patricia Furtado, Edmund Furtado, Jackie Carvalho, Francis “Buddy” Furtado, Baron Furtado, Damien Lamb, and Sarah Green.
She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, her three cherished daughters, five adored grandchildren, and two precious great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Angeline Stephens; her brother, Louis “Butch” Furtado; her dear brother-in-law, Cecil Gravely and her sister-in-law, Judy Keeter. Additionally, she is survived by many nieces, nephews, and treasured family members and friends who will forever hold her memory close in their hearts.
Her kindness, humor, and unwavering love touched all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of generosity, resilience, and joy—one that will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Tootsie always reminded us to “be kind to one another.” In lieu of flowers, we ask that you show someone kindness today and think of her.
A Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Amory Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00pm. Burial will take place afterward at Peninsula Memorial Gardens.
May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave.