Thomas E Harvey

Mr. Thomas Edward Harvey, age 91, of Hiawassee, Georgia, who passed away Friday, December 27, 2013 in Chatuge Regional Hospital in Hiawassee.

Mr. Harvey was born in North Carolina on May 1, 1922, a son of the late John H. Harvey and Annie Barnes Harvey. As a young man, Thomas joined the Civilian Conservation Corps. and helped with the development of National Parks in Yosemite, Glacier and Joshua Tree. Later, he proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II. His combat tour included the Battle of the Bulge and various others fierce battles, fighting under the command of General Patton and earning 2 Purple Heart Medals. After his wartime service he met and fell in love with a beauty named, Elsie Holcomb. They eloped on their 3rd date and enjoyed nearly 57 years of marriage until her death in 2002. Elsie's home cooking of biscuits & gravy and fried chicken always put a smile on Thomas' face.Together, they raised 3 children and owned & operated a campground which became a family affair. Hosting fish fry's (that were caught on trout lines that Thomas set) and music performances by his grandchildren for his guests entertainment. He never met a stranger and always spoke what was on his mind.

Thomas was known as a hard working man, but he always managed to find plenty of time to spend with his family. He enjoyed teaching them about the outdoors, riding them around on his lawn mower and golf carts and gathering together for family camping or holiday events. His dedication to providing for his family had no bounds. Even as a fire destroyed his home, His ability to improvise led to the family living in 2 large Army tents as he began the process of rebuilding. A proud Free & Accepted Mason he was a Member and Past Master of Rex Lodge #251 located in Rex, Georgia.

He leaves behind to treasure his memory: son & daughter-in-law, Thomas & Amy Harvey; daughter, Sharon Nowland; daughter & son-in-law, Shirley & Glen Harris; grandchildren, Michelle Tublin, Hank Harvey, Wyatt Espalin, Matt Espalin, Pamela McFall and Peyton Latham Turk. 18 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren also share in his legacy.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 30, 2013 at 3:00 p.m., from the Chapel of Cochran Funeral Home in Hiawassee with Rev. Kevin Garrison officiating. Special Music will be performed by Wyatt Espalin, Cobi Ferguson & Tony Ford. Interment will follow at Laurel Hills Memory Gardens in Hiawassee. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday evening, December 29, 2013 from 6 until 9 p.m. The following gentlemen have been selected to serve as pallbearers: Wyatt Espalin, Matt Espalin, Daylon Espalin, Ian Thompson, Devin McFall and Hank Harvey. Honorary Escort to the family will include: Eddie Cantrell, J.W. Cantrell and J.C. Harvey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Masonic Children's Home, PO Box 4665
Macon, GA 31208.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Cochran Funeral Home of Hiawassee. You are welcome to send your condolences to the family on our website, www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.