Shirley Gene Harvey

Shirley Gene Harvey, born September 2, 1930 in West Helena, Arkansas, to the late John Willard Kalb and Vera Elizabeth Van Sant, passed away May 12,2021 at her Irving home, just 3 ½ months shy of her 91st birthday.

Shirley graduated from the University of Arkansas class of 1952 School of Pharmacy. She was the first woman pharmacist to graduate at the University. She later received an Honorary Doctorate.

On October 4, 1955, Shirley married James Fenton Harvey, Jr., whom preceded her in death in 1984. Two younger brothers: John “Jack” Willard Kalb, Jr and Van Sant Kalb also predeceased her.

A wonderful Mother, she was active in Boy Scouts as den leader; (she worked very hard to see 3 of her boys become Eagle Scouts); Girls Scouts as assistant Troop leader and the Irving ISD PTA. Shirley grew up in the Depression and was frugal with her money. She taught her children to never waste food (and to eat what you put on your plate), loved her garden (like a mini farm), and grew just about every vegetable that you can image. Shirley was a smart woman, who also had great common sense, was a great cook.

Raised on a farm, she had a hard work ethic, which she passed to her children. She dedicated her life to her kids...she rarely bought anything for herself, and consistently put her kids first.

Survivors include her children: John Van Sant Harvey, Glenn Lee Harvey and wife Elizabeth, Ruth Elisabeth Harvey, William “Bill” DuPree Harvey, and Christopher Paul Harvey, along with three Grandchildren: Brandon James Harvey, Nicholas Mason Harvey, and Audrey Leigh Harvey.