Richard William Harvey, Sr.

Richard William Harvey Sr., 85, of Arrington, passed away on Saturday May 3, 2025.

He was born October 28, 1939 to the late John Clayton and Nora Williams Harvey.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a brother, Thornton Wayne “Nubby” Harvey and sister-in-law, April Harvey.

Richard was a lifelong cattle farmer. He worked for Morton Frozen Foods for 17 years. Afterward he was an important part of the Nelson County farming community when he and his wife worked for Mays Farmers Service in Colleen. He later worked for Virginia Department of Transportation where he retired after nearly 30 years of service. Richard was a member and deacon at Woodland Baptist Church.

Known for his laid-back personality and welcoming grin, Richard never met a stranger, always looking to strike up a conversation. He absolutely loved being at home on his farm. This was his happy place. He lived his entire life on the farm and still lived in the house that he was born in and often joked that he had only left home to go to work and to haul cattle to market.

The only thing Richard loved more than his farm was his family. He looked forward to family gatherings for the holidays and birthdays. He was a connoisseur of good cake and homemade ice cream and could drink his body weight in Coca-Cola.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Phyllis Oliver Harvey; his son, Richard “Rick” W. Harvey Jr. (Michele); brothers, Franklin Harvey (Jenny) and D. Nelson Harvey; his grandchildren, Tyler Harvey (Courtney) and Kayla Harvey; his great grandchildren, Elaina and Madeline; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A service celebrating Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Woodland Baptist Church at 3:00 pm. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 pm at the church.

Interment will be private on family farm at a later date.

We would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Regency Senior Living Memory Care for giving “PawPaw” so much love and joy over the past year.

In lieu of flowers please consider giving a donation in Richard’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org or Nelson County FFA.

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).