Leroy “Boo” Harvey was born on July 4, 1973, in Benton Harbor, MI, to the union of Leroy and Juanita Harvey. He transitioned from this world on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the age of 51.
Leroy was a proud native of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and a 1992 graduate of Benton Harbor High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, both from Ferris State University. Additionally, he obtained a certification in Child Development from Lake Michigan College and an MBA from Western Michigan University.
Leroy dedicated much of his life to public service and education. He served as Vice President of the Benton Harbor Area School Board, where he was Chairman of the Instruction & Curriculum Committee. He was also a member of the Band of Brethren in Christ, a proud member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity, and a former Vice President of Citizens for Progressive Change. His commitment to the community extended to his role as former Chairman of the Recreation Committee for the Governor’s Task Force in 2003 and as a former Benton Harbor City Commissioner, where he chaired the Public Safety/Recreation Committee.
When the opportunity to return home and make a difference arose, Mr. Harvey accepted the challenge. He returned to Benton Harbor to serve as an instructor, coach, mentor, counselor, and intervention specialist, all in service of the students of Benton Harbor Area Schools. Over the years, he worked and advanced through the juvenile justice system, the education system, and the non-profit sector.
Among his many accolades, Mr. Harvey established the 501(c)(3) organization First Chance Inc., which provided youth programs focused on academic support, youth development, enrichment activities, and family services. At the time of his passing, he was serving as the President & Chief Executive Officer of First Chance Inc.
In addition to his work in Benton Harbor, he lived in Kalamazoo, MI, where he mentored and fostered numerous young boys. He later moved to Dallas, TX, he was an employee at The Dallas School District. He also served as the Site Manager for a homeless shelter.
Leroy was a member of Bethlehem Temple during his childhood days. He became a member of Freedom Faith Worship Center when he was living in Battle Creek Michigan. He enjoyed watching via Facebook Live his brother Pastor Anthony King as well as his cousin Dr. Andre and Pamela Golliday.
Cherished Memories
Leroy leaves to cherish his memory five beloved young men: Brandon (Brittny) Harvey of Dallas, TX; Damian Harvey of St. Louis, MO; Ja’Corey Dorsey of Flint, MI; Jordan Harvey of Benton Harbor, MI; and Leroy Anthony Harvey III of Battle Creek, MI. He is also survived by his loving sister, Carol (Rodney) Alexander of Benton Harbor, MI; his brother, Bishop Anthony Harvey (Felicia) of Rock Hill, SC; and his dear aunts, Peggy Eddie and Virginia Williams of Benton Harbor, MI, and Elaine Wadford of Minnesota. He was a proud grandfather to two granddaughters, Malanuia and Brailey Harvey. God Mother Jean Cooper, two God Sisters, Charity Burton and Sherinna Haynes.
Preceded in Death
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy, and Juanita Harvey; his grandparents, Juanita Robinson, and Pearl (Louise) Haley; his uncles, Willie Mayes Sr., Jerome Eddie, William Harvey, Coy Harvey, and Bernard Harvey; and his aunts, Erma Peterson, Tosca Redden, Grace Harvey, and LaVergne Lewis.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Robbins Brothers Funeral Home, Benton Harbor.
Posted On: Monday, February 17, 2025 3:38 PM
