Born on November 7, 1974, Michael was the beloved son of Paulette Graves-Ball and Harold Echols. He was lovingly raised by his mother and stepfather, Andrew Ball. All three parents preceded him in death.

Michael gave his life to Christ at an early age and joined Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church. His love for Christ and gospel music was unmistakable. He was known to suddenly switch the music from R&B to gospel or unexpectedly send a gospel song in a text message, lifting spirits in his own unique way.

Michael graduated from Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School (VASJ) and attended John Carroll University where he studied psychology. He later returned to VASJ as an assistant basketball coach and eventually became the head freshman coach under the tutelage of Babe Kwasniak. Michael’s love for basketball reached far beyond the court. He found purpose in mentoring young players.

Some of Michael’s favorite memories and proudest ‘Al Bundy’ moments were tied to his four championship rings and the lifelong friendships, which he often spoke about with joy and humor.

Michael’s public service career began 26 years ago on July 12, 1999, at the Cleveland Municipal Court. During his tenure with the court, he held numerous titles, including Deputy Bailiff, Deputy Bailiff Warrant Officer, Deputy Bailiff Supervisor, and Personal Bailiff to the Honorable Judge Lauren C. Moore.

Michael served as Judge Moore’s Personal Bailiff for 15 years. He played a pivotal role in the daily operations of the courtroom and was a strong presence on the campaign trail, contributing significantly to her campaign and re-election efforts. His hard work, discipline, and dedication helped lead to her re-election to two consecutive six-year terms with the Cleveland Municipal Court. Most recently, he supported her successful campaign for a six-year term with the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.

In addition to his public service, Michael built a career through various part-time roles. No matter how big the job or how demanding the campaign, he carried it out with precision and made it look effortless. He returned calls the same day, kept his desk immaculately organized, and was known for giving “the look” if anyone dared leave a piece of paper on it.

Michael’s efforts didn’t end with work and basketball, they continued on with his volunteer work and donations efforts. With his most notable service acts being on the 11th Congressional District Caucus, Labor Day Parade & Festival committee for 15+ years and donating 5-10 turkeys each year for Thanksgiving.  A true community servant, indeed.

Michael was the loving husband of Tiffany Graves for 18 years. The two met on March 22, 2002, and were married on August 31, 2007. Through this union, they raised two beautiful children, Ashley Brown and Michael Graves, Jr.

Michael’s love and devotion for his wife and children was evident in the way he spoke about them with pride and passion. He often shared stories about family vacations, his wife’s cooking, Ashley’s latest travel adventures, and Mikey’s milestones, including prom, graduation, and his upcoming journey to the University of Cincinnati.

Michael’s devotion to family extended through his love for his three sisters: Anjolin Zoro (Yao), Annette Ball, and Michelle Wheeler (Armond). His nieces and nephews brought him great joy through their countless jokes and good-spirited banter.
Some of his happiest moments included cracking jokes with Kenyalise and Kimani, spending time with Devin in the yard, watching Anijah build a business for a school project, attending Armelle’s school events and games, and cheering on Ace as he learned to dribble and shoot the basketball.

In his free time, Michael found great joy in traveling. Some of his most recent adventures included a Caribbean cruise and a visit to the beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica. He also treasured peaceful moments in his personally curated backyard, a space that reflected his pride, creativity, and sense of calm.

Michael leaves to mourn his passing, his loving wife, two children, three sisters, eight in-laws, six nieces and nephews, a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as a close-knit group of best friends (B&MC), judges, coaches, and colleagues from both the court and his part-time work.