Julia Debele Harvey's Obituary
Julia Debele Harvey was born on July 6, 1942, in Savannah, Georgia, and departed this life on October 31, 2021, in Memphis, Tennessee. She was the daughter of the late Charles McClure Debele and Julia Furse Debele. After her mother’s death Charles married the late Majorie Bond Debele, who also loved Julia dearly. Julia is survived by her husband Henry Hallowell Harvey of Memphis, Tennessee, her brother Charles McClure Debele, Jr. of Richmond Hill, Georgia, her two sons Henry Hallowell Harvey, Jr. of Hong Kong and Charles Debele Harvey of Memphis, along with their spouses Raquel and Meribeth, respectively, and her six grandchildren.
Julia loved being with family and friends during her childhood. She would travel to church camps, visit her relatives in South Carolina, and enjoy the drive to Tybee Island, where she spent many days, even into adulthood, sitting on the beach and soaking in the sun. If there was a seashore near, you would likely find Julia. And if landlocked, she would hear the waves and smell the salty air in her memories.
After graduating from Savannah High School in 1960, Julia went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Georgia in 1964. While teaching English at Jenkins High School in Savannah, she met Henry, and the two were married on November 26, 1965. Two children followed, Henry Jr. in 1968 and Charles in 1970. Julia’s heart was later filled to overflowing with arrival of six grandchildren, her great joy: Grace, Fiona, Pavel, Trey, Annaliese, and Eliana.
Julia poured her life into her family, as well as those she welcomed into her extended family through spiritual kinship and friendship. Many people were drawn to her because of her warmth and empathy. She was a gifted listener and provided just what you needed — a smile, a hug, shared tears, heartfelt advice, or just her quiet, comforting presence.
Julia lived most of her married life in Brunswick, Georgia, and was involved in her boys’ schools through the PTA and as a volunteer resource for teachers. Tennis was her sport of choice, and she enjoyed playing doubles with friends from the Junior Women’s Club, as well as with her family. While she had a competitive streak, for sure, she was happiest when her boys won the final point. The Christian Women’s Club in Brunswick and the Golden Isles was also an important source of connection and ministry for her and gave her opportunities to host women’s Bible studies. The family attended First Baptist Church, where Julia loved singing in the choir and was involved in various church ministries and fellowships.
She and Henry moved to Memphis, Tennessee, in January 2017 to be near family. The communities of Trezevant and Second Presbyterian Church opened their hearts to them kindly.
Julia was lovely in every way, and we all look forward to the day we can join her smiling and singing in that great celestial choir, where all our voices may be as beautiful as hers.
In the place of your rest, O Lord, where all your saints repose, give rest also to the soul of your servant, Julia. May her memory be eternal.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to Stonecroft Ministries or Young Life in
her honor.
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