James "Jim" R. Harvey

James “Jim” Rankin Harvey passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at Charlton Methodist Hospital, Dallas, Texas, of natural causes at the age of 86 with his loving children at his bedside. He is preceded in death by his beautiful, loving, devoted wife Patricia. Jim was born to Nellie E. Freasier and Virgil V. Harvey in Fittstown, Oklahoma April 9,1936. Jim graduated from South Park High School in 1954 and went on to earn his bachelor and masters from Lamar University, finally earning his Doctorate in Physical Education from LSU. His passion to further his education was admired by many. Jim served in the United States Air Force where he met his beloved wife, Patricia Ann McEwen Harvey, while he was stationed in England. After the birth of their first child, he moved his family back to the US, where they settled and raised their four children in Beaumont, Texas. After earning his PHD, Jim secured the role of Director of Physical Eduction at El Centro College, located in Downtown Dallas. He remained in this role until he retired. Jim’s love for sports led him to officiating basketball and football at both high school and college levels. He took great pride in his role as an official. He was honored to be Head Referee at the 2000 Cotton Bowl at Fair Park, Dallas, TX. In addition, he was an avid Golfer, playing the game for many many years as often as possible. Jim often could be heard retelling the story of hitting a once in a life time Hole in One! He is survived by his brother George Harvey, children Robert and his wife Janelle, Linda, Laura, Cathy and her husband Michael, grandchildren Tiffany, Andrew, Julia, Patrick, Melissa, Kelly and Jack, and great grandchildren Reagan, Trista, Hendrix, Joshua and Harrison. A Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel of West/Hurtt Funeral Home at 12:30 P.M. on Friday - January 13, 2023 with Pastor Larry Williams, officiating. Interment, with Military Honors, will follow at 2:15 P.M. in the Dallas/Ft. Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, TX.