John Joseph Harvey

John Joseph Harvey (Jay), living in Cary, NC, passed away on July 8, 2026, surrounded by his daughters, at the age of 87. Jay was born in Albany, NY, and raised in Bennington, VT, by his parents Eleanor C Harvey and Earl (Jeff) C Harvey. He attended local schools through high school and then graduated from the University of Vermont, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Nancy Ann Gibson. A few years later, Jay completed his MBA from Seton Hall University.

Following college, Jay’s work career started at Colonial Life Insurance Co. Once promoted to the Mortgage department, he found a career path sourcing and underwriting commercial mortgage loans that stimulated his interests for decades. Those work years were happily spent at Colonial Life, US Life and First Savings Bank and offered Jay the kind of job satisfaction most only hope for.

Jay and Nancy married in 1962 and their family was complete with the births of daughters Katherine (Kay) and Carolyn (Lynn). The Harvey family lived in Ocean Township, NJ, and created many happy memories at the Deal Golf Club, Allenhurst Beach Club and the various school and sports-related activities of Kay and Lynn.

Two sports specifically were a passion for Jay; skiing and golf. His skiing ability was limited to the recreational level; however, golf was somewhat more competitive. Jay won the Vermont Junior Amateur Championship as a teenager and played on the golf team while at UVM. He also won the Senior Club Championship at Deal Golf and Country Club.

Jay retired and he and Nancy moved to Wilmington, NC. After ten years in Wilmington, they moved to Apex, NC, to be closer to their granddaughters, Emma Kate Smith and Bryson Grace Smith. While in NC, Jay enjoyed playing golf and following NC State and UVM’s athletic teams. Jay spent the last couple months of his life in his new home in the Waltonwood community in Cary. He was so happy there; meeting wonderful people and becoming a Bingo fanatic!

Jay was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife of 62 years, Nancy; his sisters, Rosemary Harvey and Ellie Harvey Barnes; and nephew Neddie Barnes. He leaves behind his loving daughters Kay (Mike) and Lynn (Steve); granddaughters, Emma and Bryson; brother, Tom; niece, Leslie Barnes Cullen (Mike and Theo); nephews, Brian Gibson and John Gibson; along with Neddie’s family, Hilary and Faye.

The family will be celebrating Jay’s life privately. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jay’s memory to Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh or any animal rescue of your choice.