Bernard Harvey

Bernard Harvey was born on March 31, 1936 in Washington, DC to the late James (Buster) Harvey and Henrietta Harrison.

Bernard accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Salem Baptist Church, King George, VA.

He graduated from Cardozo High School in Washington, DC in 1952 at the age of 16. Upon finishing high school, Bernard attended Federal City College in Washington, DC. He decided that he did not like college and decided not to return to college. He took the test for the Air Force. After passing the test, he was shipped out the following day. He was the only black out of 19 applicants. Bernard served in the Air Force for 27 years. During his military service, he served three tours in Vietnam. After completing his military service, he continued to work. Bernard became the first Black to teach ROTC at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio. He worked as a Detention Center Counselor in Cleveland, Ohio. He was also the first Black to integrate an apartment unit in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Bernard was featured in a newspaper article in the Plain Dealer Newspaper in reference to his integration efforts.

Bernard returned to King George, VA in the late 80’s where he worked as a bus driver for King George County schools. He also worked as a charter bus driver, truck driver and security guard. He worked at Cedell Brooks Funeral Home.

He reunited with Salem Baptist Church where he was a member of the Usher Board. He started the Video Ministry and also helped out in the Food Pantry.

Bernard left Salem for a short period of time in which he attended Maranatha Baptist Bible School. He eventually returned to Salem where he maintained his membership. He continued to serve at Salem until his health begin to fail. Even after his failing health, Bernard was able to attend services from time to time.

Bernard loved to read and listen to music during his relaxation time. He loved sports, his favorite football team was the Cleveland Browns. He loved to cook. One of his favorite dishes was barbecue pig feet.

One of his favorite sayings was “Ain’t nothing to it but to do it.”

He married his “Soul Mate”, Ethel Watson. He was a loving father to his son, David James Harvey.

Bernard was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Harvey and his brother, Marco Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted and loving wife, Ethel Streets Watson Harvey, one son David James Harvey; bonus son, Cordarryl Ford, who was his care giver for two years; one daughter, LaVinia Watson, two granddaughters, Dannille Waters, Lynette Davis Jackson, six great grandchildren. Sister, Joyce Mugg of Haywood, CA; Brother, Charles Jones of Upper Marlboro, MD. Three nieces: Katherine Mugg, Keisha Jones, Dayna Marbury (Mark); two nephews: Greg Mugg, Derek Jones. Two

great nieces, four great nephews. Two uncles: Alfred Harrison of King George, VA; Walter Harrison (Linda) of Hyattsville, MD. Walter was also a bonus son. One aunt, Paulette Dorsey of King George, VA.

A longtime friend, Joe Harding of Cleveland, Ohio. With Bernard’s passing, Joe is the only remaining friend of a large group of close friends.  A host of cousins and other relatives.

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say I used everything you gave me.”