Joseph Harvey Jr.

Joseph Harvey Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away on June 21, 2023, at the age of 89. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication to his family and community.

Born on April 26, 1934, in Charleston, South Carolina, Joseph was the son of Lula and Joseph Harvey Sr.

After completing his education, Joseph served his country as a member of the Air Force. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, duty, and honor, values that he carried with him throughout his life. No matter where the Air Force took him, he always made a point to spend his Sundays in a local church. His military service eventually brought him to Lockbourne Air Force Base (now Rickenbacker AFB). One Sunday while visiting Pilgrim Baptist Church in Columbus, he met a beautiful young Ethel Robertson, and decided that central Ohio would be his home.

Following his military service, Joseph worked for many years in the insurance industry. Later, he joined Lucent Technologies (fka Western Electric), where he contributed his skills and dedication until his retirement.

Joseph's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his faith. For 63 years, he was a devoted member of Christ Memorial Baptist Church, where he contributed his time and talents to outreach ministries, prison ministry, indigent hospitality, and various other charitable organizations. And parishioners will recall his many years teaching Sunday school at Christ Memorial. His unwavering faith always guided his actions and his kindness and compassion touched the lives of many.

Joseph's greatest joy in life came from his family. He was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Ethel (Robertson) Harvey, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage, cherished memories and companionship. Together, they raised three sons: Joseph III (Pat Barnett), Stephen (Karen Soderberg) and Kenneth (Sue Barclay).

In addition to his wife and children, Joseph is survived by his grandchildren, Daniel, Elise (Sam Beck), Kenny, and Caroline. He was also blessed to have three great-grandchildren, Eliot, Avery & Cameron. He also leaves behind Ophelia Brown, and a host of other cousins, nieces, nephews and cherished friends.