Edward "Big Ed" Harvey

 “Big Ed” Harvey was born on December 29, 1935 in Stockton, Alabama. He passed away surrounded by the spirit of love from his friends and family on September 11, 2021.

Ed was predeceased by the love of his life, Joyce Harvey, and they are reunited in eternal love. They were married for 46 years at his time of death and shared a beautiful life filled with love and laughter with their children and grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than being with his family especially if it involved playing spades, chess, going fishing, or breakfast and coffee.

Big Ed lived a life filled with several life times of stories and experiences. He grew up on a farm in Alabama where his family worked as farmers for wages. He was a part of history from the segregation era through the Civil Rights era. He moved from Alabama to Delaware when he was 17 years old and dedicated his life to providing for his family of 12 children. He made history in Delaware as the first black plate maker at Westvaco where he worked for over 25 years and retired. Big Ed always had a kind word for everyone, and there was not one place he could go in Delaware without someone knowing him, especially Delaware Park. He was a devoted member of Simpson United Methodist Church and lead singer in the men’s choir. Big Ed’s singing voice was a reflection of him – soulful, purposeful, and uplifting.

Big Ed had a smile that could light up a room, a cackling laugh that was undeniable, and a heart that was never ending. He will be deeply missed.

Ed was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Harvey, and his son Little Eddie. He is survived by his 11 children, 22 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at Timothy’s of Newark on Saturday, 9/25/2021, from 5PM to 10PM. Please join us to celebrate the life of Big Ed through good food, good company, and a couple hands of Spades or Poker. We respectfully ask the necessary Covid precautions are taken if you are unvaccinated. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward "Big Ed" Harvey, please visit our floral store.