George F. Harvey

VAN BUREN — George F. Harvey departed this life, July 28, 2016, in Fort Smith.

George was born May 18, 1924, in Melbourne, to George Frank and Jennie Ellen Hunter Harvey. He and his wife, Maudlin Tinkle Harvey, had one son, G.F. Harvey III, of whom they were most proud.

George was an avid sportsman who loved fishing, particularly deep-sea fishing, and loved to host the occasional catfish fry at “Harvey’s Fish House.” George was a World War II veteran achieving the rank of technical sergeant in the United States Air Force. He received a Certificate of Valor in Recognition of Courageous Service in Aerial Combat, and Special Achievements as a B-24 radio operator/mechanic gunner while participating in 35 missions over enemy territory in Europe. One of these missions ended when his plane was shot down behind enemy lines. George used his skills of communication and persuasion to make his way through the underground back to his unit in Italy.

George’s captivating smile and hearty laugh affected all those who knew him and everyone knew that if Harvey was in the house, a good time would be had by all. This spirit was evident in the way he said goodbye. He always added, “Behave yourself … almost.”

His parents, his wife, Maudlin; a son, Jeff; two brothers, Clarence Dayton Harvey and Harold Dean Harvey; and a sister, Idelle Harvey Fudge, preceded George in death.

He is survived by his niece, Donna Kay Cleveland and husband, Jim, of Mount Vernon; great-nephew, Keith Fudge and his wife, Danna, of Van Buren; a host of other nieces and nephews, and friend, Wilma Sanders.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peachtree Hospice of Fort Smith.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 1, 2016, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe, with graveside service to follow at 10 a.m. at Beebe Cemetery.

Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home.

Guestbook at http://www. smithfamilycares.com.