Son of Fred Kesler Garvey and Edna Weiss Garvey, Alfred was born in Knoxville, TN and soon moved to Winston-Salem, NC where he grew up. He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings, Fred Kesler Garvey, Jr, John Weiss Garvey, and Sarah Garvey Deal. Dr. Garvey is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Potter Garvey, daughter, Susan Garvey Seaton (Jeff); sons, Jack Hamilton Garvey (Annette), James Potter Garvey (Louisa) and Alfred Hamilton Garvey, Jr. (Carole). He had 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was called “Papa” by all.
It was in Winston-Salem where Alfred met the love of his life, Rose Murray Potter at the age of 5. As their friendship grew, so did their lifelong core of friends.
Alfred attended UNC and later graduated from the Bowman Gray School of Medicine where he studied Urology under the care of his father, the department founder. He then began a medical practice in Greensboro that continues today as Alliance Urology Specialists.
As Alfred was able to enjoy some leisure time, he included his family in many of his passions; the house and boat (The Roseola) at Wrightsville Beach, the trout fishing mountain lodge and retreat, Long Hope, the Off Island gun club and the Greensboro Country Club. His family bonded around these activities and continue to do so today.
Dr. Garvey was an accomplished pianist who performed in public venues and with friendly gatherings. He loved many music styles but was particularly impassioned with Classical. His family can still recognize and hum the tunes of the Greats, including Mozart and Beethoven, due to the countless hours of Alfred’s practice sessions on the piano. He even played french horn with the UNC Marching Band in the 1949 Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. He loved gardening at this Kimberly Drive house and at the Wrightsville Beach house. As his fishing pursuits slowed down, Alfred concentrated on oil painting as his primary pastime and he took his skill to a level that his paintings now adorn the walls of the homes of his family.
Alfred was a Captain in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a Navigation Specialist and active member of the U.S. Power Squadrons. He was a kind, gentle soul with many interests-a true Renaissance man. His doctrines included citizenship, honor, hard work, loyalty, love and decency. He leaves behind a loving wife and family.
A service to celebrate Alfred’s life will be held Tuesday, April 17 at 11:30 am at St. Francis Episcopal Church with a reception to follow in the parish hall.
Memorial contributions may be made in Alfred’s name to St. Francis Episcopal Church, 3506 Lawndale Dr., Greensboro, NC 27408.
Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.
Hanes-Lineberry Funeral N. Elm Street will be assisting the Garvey family.
