Nicholas (Nick) Cheyene Gradus of Jacksonville, NC, passed away on September 23, 2023. He was born in Raleigh on August 19,1990. He was a graduate of Clayton High School, Class of 2008 and a proud member of the "Comet Crazies".

Nick was creative, sensitive, smart and could outshine the sun with his personality and smile. . He had a great sense of humor and his laugh was contagious. He was quick to make friends and loved to talk. His knowledge was vast and he could hold a conversation regarding just about any subject matter. He could talk poetry, philosophy, sports, politics, religion, music (the list goes on) and would never hesitate to let his opinion be known on any of these topics.

He loved food and loved to cook, especially on the grill. He could also carry on lengthy conversations about recipes and any and all sauces and flavor combinations.

His sense of style bordered on eccentric. Crazy patterns and bright colors seemed to define him. If Nick was seen in solid colors, he would probably be close to unrecognizable. He never wanted to just 'blend in'.

Nick loved his friends, family and pets deeply and never hesitated to give them all the biggest of hugs. He was extremely thoughtful, not just in regards to the gifts he gave, but also with his words. He always took extra time to send heartfelt messages through texts and cards and had been known to write his fair share of poems for the people he loved.

This quote was found among his belongings:

"The most beautiful people are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." -Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Nick is preceded in death by his mom, Tina Melanie Furci Petterson of Greenville, NC.

He leaves behind his dad, Paul Rudolph Gradus and his stepmom(s) Dee Banks of Jacksonville and Dee Dee Midgett of Swansboro; stepdad, Eric Petterson of Las Vegas, NV; sister, Melody Lea Petterson Pena of Las Vegas, NV; sister, Kristi Gradus of Charlotte, NC and brother, Drew Gradus of Swansboro, NC along with numerous friends and family members.

A celebration of life to be announced in the weeks to come.

Any donations in Nick's memory can be made to The Lupus Foundation (https://www.lupus.org/give/ways-to-give) in memory of his mom, Tina or to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (https://www.facebook.com/donate/308695191626070/10229476427158120/) in honor of Kristi and Drew