Harvey Lewis Wray, Jr.

Harvey Lewis Wray, Jr., born on July 1, 1937, in Rockbridge County, Virginia, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on May 3, 2025.

Harvey is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey Lewis Wray Sr. and Camilla Garner Davis Wray. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 65 years, Phyllis Seaman Wray, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful family and life rooted in faith, service, and love.

Harvey is also survived by his son David and his wife Valerie, his son Michael, his grandson Ethan and his wife Elisa, and one great-granddaughter, Sabina.

A proud graduate of Natural Bridge High School in 1955, Harvey met Phyllis shortly after at a local skating rink. His impressive skating skills caught her eye, and a lifelong love story began. The two were married on June 22, 1959, in Rockbridge County, Virginia.

Following their marriage, Harvey enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he trained in Texas before being stationed in Portsmouth New Hampshire, as an aircraft mechanic. During their time in Portsmouth, Harvey and Phyllis welcomed their two sons, David and Michael. After completing his service, the family returned to Rockbridge County and later settled in Big Island, Virginia, where Harvey began his career at the local paper mill. After sustaining a work-related injury, he was trained as a machinist— a role he deeply enjoyed and remained in until his retirement after 37 years of dedicated service.

Harvey had a natural curiosity and a deep love for learning. He pursued a wide range of hobbies over the years, including beekeeping, competitive benchrest shooting, fishing, hunting, and gardening. He had a gift for mastering new skills and a passion for the challenge that came with each new pursuit.

Beyond his work and hobbies, Harvey had a heart for service. He volunteered with the Big Island Fire Department and later joined the Big Island Volunteer Rescue Squad, proudly serving alongside Phyllis and David. He was also a faithful member of Big Island Baptist Church, where he served as both a Sunday School teacher and Deacon. His love for the Lord led him far beyond his home community, as he traveled across the country on numerous mission trips to share the message of Christ and serve those in need.

Harvey was a good man—steadfast, kind, and generous. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and a cherished friend to many. While his presence will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing they will be reunited again one day in glory.

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” —Hebrews 13:2.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Big Island Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com