James Wiley Harvey

James graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1957 and went on to attend Texas Tech University on a track scholarship. During the summer of 1958, a spontaneous decision to climb a fence and attend the Roby Rodeo would change his life forever—it was there he met Jane Ammons, the love of his life. At the time, Jane was attending McMurry College, and soon after, James transferred there as well. He continued running track at McMurry, sparking a lifelong love and support for McMurry athletics.

James and Jane were married on August 27, 1962, beginning a devoted partnership that would anchor the rest of his life. He began his professional career coaching football at O.L. Slaton Junior High in Lubbock, followed by a position at Roby High School. The couple later moved to Duncanville, where he continued coaching. However, the demanding schedule of coaching led James to seek a career that allowed more time with his family, prompting him to join the Dallas Fire Department. Ever industrious, he also worked repairing appliances for Frigidaire on his days off.

In 1970, James and his family moved to Abilene, Texas, where he joined the Abilene Fire Department. During his time there, he also worked in the maintenance department at McMurry. After twenty years of service, he retired from the fire department and began a new chapter as a teacher, sharing his knowledge of history and government with students at Trent ISD until his retirement from education.

Above all, James took the greatest pride in building and nurturing his family, which he considered his most important accomplishment. Known for his quick wit, playful nature, and love of conversation, he brought joy and laughter to those around him. A natural storyteller and jokester, he had a way of making every interaction memorable.

James Wiley Harvey will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his son, W. Case Harvey; daughter, Cameo Harvey and husband Baker Bryant; grandchildren, Samantha Harvey, Sterling Bryant, and Keaton Bryant; sister and brother-in-law, Martha and Jerry Crawford; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation will be held at First Methodist Church, 202 Butternut, Abilene, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24th. A Celebration of Life will be held at the same location on Wednesday, March 25th at 1:00 p.m under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to McMurry Athletics (https://secure.qgiv.com/for/athleticsdonationform/), the Kiwanis Foundation for scholarships via Venmo @KC_of_Greater_Abilene or by mail to P.O. Box 312, Abilene, TX 79604, or to First Methodist Church, Abilene.