Harvey E. Kelley Sr.

Harvey E. Kelley Sr. was called home for everlasting rest and eternal joy on Thursday, January 21, 2021, in Riverside Doctors’ Hospital, Williamsburg surrounded by family.  His life began on October 9, 1927, in Waverly, Virginia, son of the late Eleanor and Walter Kelley Sr. 

He attended the Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, graduating from Bruton Heights School in 1947.  One year later, he joined in holy matrimony with the former Marion E. Whitby.

Harvey started his career with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, retiring after forty-seven years of service.  He later worked seventeen years with Anheuser-Busch before retiring for a second time. He was also an honorary member of the Old Capital Lodge No. 629. 

Affectionately known as “Papa” by his family and friends, would freely give or do anything asked of him.  His quiet, yet strong presence was one that many found as a sense of peace, order, and security.  The simplest things in life brought him great joy and pride.  Harvey loved quality time with his family. Always the life of the party with music and a glass of scotch.  He was guaranteed to make your time unforgettable and full of laughter.  When not revving up or riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, Harvey would cruise around town in his Cadillac Deville.  From being a sharp, neat dresser to the countless pairs of Stacy Adams shoes in every color with matching accessories, Harvey’s distinguished sense of style made him known for setting trends, never chasing them.  He never hesitated to try new things or to find a better way of doing things, even if that meant doing it differently from others.  Last but not least, Harvey could be found experiencing life with Mr. Pooty and Mr. Randolph, his band of brothers and best friends forever. 

Harvey was predeceased by his wife, Marion E. Kelley; parents, Eleanor and Walter Kelley, Sr.; sisters, Helena, Ann, Susie, Nell, and Rosa; brother, Walter (“CJ”); and son-in-law, Ricky Wallace.  He leaves blessed and loving memories with his loving children, Katrina Kelley-Wallace, Harvey E. Kelley, Jr., and Renalda Kelley-Cooke (Kevin R. Sr.); grandchildren, Nicole Woodley (Matthew), Ashley Wallace, Joy Kelley, Yolanda Kelley, Kevin Cooke, Jr., Brittany McClendon, and Candace Paige-Kelley; thirteen great-grandchildren; sister, Evelyn; cousin, Dorothy, who is 102 years old; and a host of other loving relatives and many caring friends. 

Without a doubt, Harvey is the stick that many can measure the greatness of a man by, as his presence, principles, love, and selfless acts of giving was loved and respected by many and will be tremendously missed.

A funeral service will be held at noon Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Whiting's Funeral Home. Due to COVID-19, only 50 people may be in attendance with facemasks and social distancing requirements. Mr. Kelley may be viewed from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, in the funeral home. 

Professional services entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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