TELFAIR P. GRAVES

Telfair P. Graves (aka Cookie) was born in Wilson, North Carolina.  She is one of six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Jessie Phelps. After graduating from high school, Telfair joined the U.S. Marine Corps with her best friend, Carolyn Barnes.

Telfair began her military career in the postal system and then transitioned to Burial detail. She trained for twelve months on folding the American flag, blowing the bugle, and sending American troops off in honor. After her military career ended, Telfair worked for the United States Postal Service.

Telfair’s spiritual journey became ignited at New Hope Baptist Church in Fort Washington, Maryland where she experienced an awakening one Saturday evening. That was the day when she knew it was God.