Mayor of Paterson, New Jersey
First Term: 1961-1966
Second Term: 1982–1990
Frank X. Graves was one of the most influential and recognizable public officials in Paterson’s history, serving two separate terms as mayor and leaving a lasting mark on both the city and the State of New Jersey. A lifelong Paterson resident, Graves was born on November 4, 1923, graduated from Eastside High School, and interrupted his college education to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. Serving with the 50th Armored Division in Europe, he was wounded in combat and received two Purple Hearts for his service. After returning home, he completed his education and embarked on a career in public service.
Graves first entered public office as a member of the Paterson Board of Aldermen before serving on the Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders. He was elected mayor in 1961 and served two terms through 1966. After several years away from City Hall, he returned to politics as a member and later president of the Paterson City Council. In 1977 he was elected to the New Jersey State Senate, representing the 35th Legislative District, where he earned a reputation as a strong advocate for public safety and criminal justice reform.
In 1982, Graves was overwhelmingly elected to a second tenure as mayor of Paterson while continuing to serve simultaneously in the State Senate. His administration emphasized neighborhood improvement, aggressive code enforcement, public safety, and economic redevelopment. Known for his tireless work ethic, Graves personally toured city neighborhoods daily, responding to complaints about litter, abandoned buildings, graffiti, and other quality-of-life issues. His hands-on management style made him one of the city’s most visible and recognizable public officials.
As a state senator, Graves authored and championed landmark legislation aimed at reducing violent crime. The best known was the Graves Act, enacted in 1981, which established mandatory prison sentences for offenders who used firearms while committing certain crimes. He also supported legislation raising New Jersey’s legal drinking age to 21 and backed stronger penalties for drug offenses near schools, reflecting his long-standing commitment to law enforcement and community safety.
Frank X. Graves remained both mayor and state senator until his sudden death from a heart attack on March 4, 1990, at the age of 66. His passing brought an outpouring of tributes from local, state, and national leaders, who praised his decades of dedication to Paterson and New Jersey. He was succeeded temporarily by Business Administrator Anna Lisa Dopirak until a special election was held, after which William J. Pascrell Jr. became mayor. Graves is remembered as one of Paterson’s most energetic and enduring civic leaders, whose legacy continues through his impact on municipal government, public safety legislation, and his unwavering commitment to the City of Paterson.