Eugene Joseph Harvey

Eugene Joseph “Gene” Harvey, 94, of Durham passed away April 23, 2026, at Duke University Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 4, 1932, to the late Joseph Harvey and Cecelia Wojtysiak Harvey.

In addition to his parents Mr. Harvey was preceded in death by a sister, Virgina Kasza.

Mr. Harvey is survived by his wife of nearly 57 years, Charlotte Graf Harvey; sons, Daniel Harvey (Anne) of Torrence, CA, Phillip Harvey (Joyce) of Stewart, OH, Joseph Harvey (Kathleen) of Murphy, NC, Alfred Harvey (José) of Raleigh, NC and Eric Harvey (Michele) of Land of Lakes, FL; daughters, Laurie Schessler (William) of Mars, PA, and Charlene Cassidy (Mike) of Raleigh, NC; Twelve Grandchildren; Ten Great Grandchildren; and a sister, Marlene Harvey.

Gene’s life was a tapestry of service, adventure, and hands‑on curiosity. As a Seargent in the U.S. Army, Gene received five medals of honor, one of which was the Purple Heart for serving in Operation Castle, part of the atomic testing program in the Marshall Islands. After serving, he explored many professions such as installing telephone poles, driving ambulances, fighting fires, as a General Motors security guard, and working in real estate. Ultimately, he found his calling in education. Teaching became the career he cherished most, and it was the one from which he proudly retired. He also continued his commitment to community and faith as a proud 4th Degree Knight of Columbus.

Gene approached life with a tinkerer’s mind and a teacher’s heart. Whether he was doing home improvements, repairing an engine, fixing a fishing pole, or perfecting new uses for duct tape, Gene was always creating, improving, or learning. That spirit of curiosity and persistence became one of the greatest gifts he passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Gene loved the outdoors and the simple joy of being with family. He treasured fishing trips, camping under the stars, and the many road trips between Florida and Michigan that became part of the family’s story. He loved being on the water, navigating the Back Bay of Fort Myers Beach on his pontoon boat with family, stopping occasionally to fish or for a jump into the saltwater.

At home, Gene delighted in storytelling and shared experiences. He could always be relied on for “dad jokes” and silly puns. He enjoyed board and card games, watching 3D movies, M.A.S.H., English sitcoms like Mr. Bean, and the comedy of Laurel and Hardy. He also had a fondness for old‑time radio shows like Gunsmoke and The Shadow which he remembered listening to live with his oldest children. His grandchildren especially loved the imaginative “Three Little Pigs” adventures he created just for them. These stories were filled with humor, surprise, and the same creativity that defined so much of his life.

He lived fully, worked hard, and loved deeply. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the adventures he shared, and the curiosity, faith, and resilience he instilled in those who knew him best. Gene’s kindness, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held on Thursday April 30, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Hudson Funeral Home. Recitation of the Holy Rosay will be at 7:00 p.m.  A funeral service will be held on Friday May 1, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 2438 S Alston Ave Durham, NC 27713.  Officiating will be Father Pius Wekesa.

Burial will follow at Lowes Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mr. Harvey’s memory can be made to the Holy Cross Catholic Church at 2438 S Alston Ave Durham, NC 27713.

Holy Cross Catholic Church - DURHAM, NC | Online Giving