News Summary
Fayetteville, NC, reflects on the remarkable life of J. Harvey Oliver, Jr., who passed away at 98. A dedicated family man, successful in financial services, and a passionate golfer, Harvey’s legacy will continue to inspire the community. His commitment to service and love for golf marked an indelible impact on Fayetteville.
Fayetteville Says Goodbye to a Community Leader and Golf Legend
Fayetteville, NC, is in mourning after the peaceful passing of one of its beloved residents, J. Harvey Oliver, Jr., who left this world at the age of 98 on May 26, 2025, at the Carolina Inn. His legacy is woven into the fabric of this vibrant community, where he was not only a dedicated friend and family man but also a prominent figure in financial services and a passionate golfer.
A Life Well-Lived
Born in Fayetteville to John H. Oliver and Martha A. Oliver, Harvey spent almost his entire life in North Carolina. His career in the financial services industry was nothing short of impressive. He worked as a general agent with Pilot Life and General American Life Insurance Company, earning recognition as a life member of the Million Dollar Roundtable for excellence in insurance sales. His business acumen didn’t stop there; he also served as Chairman of the Board and President of Guaranty Savings and Loan, and played a vital role in the BB&T local advisory board for ten years.
A Veteran’s Story
During World War II, Harvey enlisted in the Army Air Corps after finishing high school and found himself stationed in Guam as an aircraft mechanic. His commitment to service extended beyond his military duty, as he was actively involved in various civic and charitable organizations throughout his life.
Giving Back to Fayetteville
Community service was a cornerstone of Harvey’s life. He dedicated eleven years to the Fayetteville and Cumberland Board of Education and spent nine years on the Salvation Army Board, serving as Chair for part of that time. Harvey’s leadership was further evidenced when he acted as Campaign Chair for CC United Way in 1971, and he also held the position of Vice President of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. Harvey’s vision led to the founding of Heritage Place Inc., where he served as the founding chairman, making a lasting mark in the community.
A Golfing Legacy
Harvey wasn’t just a pillar of the community; he was also a passionate golfer. A proud member of the Fayetteville High School’s 1941 state champion golf team, he secured the title of NC Junior Golf Champion in 1942 and earned his place as the individual NC High School Golf Champion in 1944. His talent followed him to the University of North Carolina, where he graduated in 1950 while also making headlines for defeating the iconic golfer Arnold Palmer during a match.
A Loving Family
Harvey is predeceased by his first wife, Peggy Oliver, their son, John H. Oliver III, his second wife, Anne M. Oliver, and stepson David Pohl. However, his spirit lives on through his cherished family, including his sister Sara Henry, daughter Buford Oliver, granddaughter Caroline Coulson, and his stepchildren along with their children. Harvey was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, faithfully serving as an Elder and on multiple councils.
A Final Farewell
A private internment service will be held in the church’s columbarium, bringing a close to a remarkable life of service, dedication, and love. The family expressed heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Carolina Inn for their attentive care, especially to Annie Rivera, along with gratitude towards Genitiva Hospice for their special support.
Honoring His Legacy
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Salvation Army, the Cumberland Community Foundation, or First Presbyterian Church. Harvey’s remarkable journey has left an indelible mark on Fayetteville, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Student Wins Congressional Art Competition
Chapin Community Gathers to Honor Cherished Members
Chapin Community Mourns Beloved Leader Raymond Marr
Remembering the Legacy of CW Price in Lexington
Honoring Dr. Johnny Miller: A CIU Legacy
Cardinal Health Unveils New Healthcare Distribution Center in Greenville
Nuneaton’s New Technical Facilities Transform University Education
Remembering John Ross Robinson: A Life of Kindness
Chapin Community Mourns the Passing of Leader Mike Neal
Columbia Remembers a Veteran: David Earl ‘Andy’ Anderson
Additional Resources
- Hamilton’s Funeral Home: J. Harvey Oliver, Jr.
- Legacy: Anne Oliver Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Anne Oliver
- CityView: Fayetteville Academy Celebrates 50 Years
- Fayetteville Observer: Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Fayetteville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Fayetteville Community News
- Google Scholar: Legacy of Community Leaders
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
- Google News: Fayetteville Obituaries
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
