Discover people named Bernette Graves

The last name Graves has its origins in England, deriving from the Old French word "grave," meaning "serious" or "heavy," which was introduced after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone with a serious demeanor or possibly a reference to a grave or burial site, indicating a connection to death or solemnity. The name is most commonly associated with the geographical regions of England, particularly in areas like Kent and Sussex. Over time, Graves has been adopted in various forms across different cultures, with notable variations including "Grave" in French-speaking regions and "Gravesen" in Scandinavian countries. The surname has also been linked to occupations, as it may have been used to denote someone who worked in or around burial sites. Historically, individuals with the surname Graves have been documented in various records, contributing to its established presence in genealogical studies.