Captain Michael James Gravitt

Michael James Gravitt, 52, devoted father and respected aviator, unexpectedly passed away on August 3, 2023.  Mike was born in Kingsville, Texas to Pat and Suzanne Gravitt and raised in Virginia Beach. At the time of his passing he was a Federal Express B777 Captain and a retired United States Navy Commander.

He graduated from Norfolk Academy in 1989 where he was the President of his senior class and captain of the Cross Country team. He received his appointment to the United States Naval Academy entering with the class of 1993. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, was Company Commander and formed tight and lifelong friendships.

In December of 1995, Mike was designated a Naval Aviator at NAS Pensacola, FL after carrier qualifying on board the USS John F. Kennedy.  He then carrier qualified in the C-2A Greyhound on board the USS John C. Stennis, earning “Top Hook” honors.  Mike, call sign “Skids”, completed his active duty service as an officer both at sea and on shore.  Following his selection for Training and Administration of Reserves, Mike reported to the Globemasters of VR-56 in January of 2000.  He served in many officer capacities culminating in his selection as Commanding Officer of VR-56 in February of 2011.  He flew on many detachments and missions including the evacuation of the citizens of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.  During his Naval career he accomplished over 4,000 military flight hours and had 186 carrier arrested landings. Countless friendships, mentorships and memories were made among his flight school and squadron mates.

Mike’s honorable Naval career spanned 21 years. He was a third generation Naval Aviator as well as the third generation to assume command of a Navy Squadron.  In 2004, Mike began his career for Federal Express as a B727 Second Officer.  He then progressed to DC10 Second Officer, MD11 First Officer, 777 First Officer, and finally 777 Captain flying international routes. Mike looked at every layover as an opportunity to explore, find adventure and connect with friends and family worldwide.

In addition to his parents, Mike is survived by his loving wife of twenty years, Brandy Gravitt; his beloved children, Anna and Miles; his sister, Amy Gravitt, brother-in-law, Erik Richter, and their children Jack and Romy; his in-laws, Richard and Madelyn Dabbs; and his sister and brother-in-law, Brittany and Mark Eubanks and their children, Trip and Archer.  He is also survived by loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

On a “No Fly Day”, you might find him hiking, fishing, running, playing tennis, golfing or walking his dog Blue on the beach.  But Mike was happiest spending time with his family and friends on the water whether it be boating, diving, kayaking or skiing. Skids never passed up the opportunity to don a costume, sing karaoke or join friends and neighbors for a good porch party! Mike was a loving spouse, father, son, brother and friend with strong convictions.  He was bright and witty and a mentor to many.  He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Mike’s faith was deep with a commitment to Galilee Church. His funeral will be at 1:00 on August 17, 2023 at Galilee Church, 3928 Pacific Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA with inurnment at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to:

By His Wounds, Inc.  1340 N. Great Neck Road  1272-137  Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (www.fathernigel.com)

NAMI Coastal Virginia  291 Independence Blvd, Suite 542  Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (namicoastalvirginia.org)

Island Dog Rescue 900 Pillow Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Galilee Church Organ Fund 3928 Pacific Avenue Virginia Beach, VA 23451-2636