Michael Lee Grafton Sr., private contractor

Michael Lee Grafton Sr., 66, of Milton, passed away Wednesday, July 5, 2017, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes. He was born Thursday, April 19, 1951, in Reading, Pa., to Esther (Smith) and the late Harold Grafton.

Mr. Grafton worked as a private contractor from 1981-2013 in the Delaware and Maryland areas, owning and operating Grafton Builders Inc. He was very involved with Habitat for Humanity and was a prior project leader for the organization. Mr. Grafton was an avid fan of all Philadelphia sports teams. An active participant in his kids' lives, he was a Little League and softball coach for his children while they were growing up.

He enjoyed fishing in his spare time and making his famous pumpkin cheese cake, but truly loved the art of carpentry. It was this medium that allowed him to cultivate his craft and express his creativity. More than all else, however, he treasured the time with his family, especially his cherished grandbabies. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

In addition to his mother, Esther Grafton of Milton, Mr. Grafton is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Amy (Robertson) Grafton of Milton; his son, Michael Lee Grafton and his wife Penny of Beaufort, S.C.; his daughter, Alexis Willey and her husband Chris of Swedesboro, N.J.; his grandchildren: Hudson and Madilyn; his sister, Donna Kirby and her husband Richard of Milton; his sister-in-law, Lenna Mele and her husband Albert of Newark; and his many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, at Lewes Presbyterian Church: 133 Kings Highway; Lewes, where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be private. All arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Lewes.
Michael would have wanted everyone in casual attire, so please, no need to dress formally.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Mr. Grafton's memory to Sussex County Habitat for Humanity: P.O. Box 759, 206 Academy St., Georgetown, DE 19947.

Visit Mr. Grafton's Life Memorial webpage and sign his online guest book at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.