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On July 25, 2026, Retha Revonda (Tate) Harvey passed away just as she lived: entirely on her own terms—carefree, independent, and unapologetically herself.
Born in Meadowview, Virginia, on January 5, 1938, Retha displayed a grounded strength throughout her years. By the age of 38, she had already lived a full life: raised one son, buried one husband, and became an empty nester. Rather than slowing down, that milestone marked the beginning of "Life: Part Two"—and the start of her journey with Lew.
Together, they built a wonderful life here in Meadowview until his passing in 2017. Retha may have brought only one son into this world, but she always had room in her heart for two—embracing Lew’s son, Lew, entirely as her own. To her, family was never divided by blood or titles; it was just one big, complete whole.
Her heart didn't stop expanding there. As the old saying goes, Retha truly never met a stranger. Her warmth welcomed in stepfamily, extended family, and lifelong friends with the exact same open arms. Above everything else, family was her true North Star, and family reunions were always the absolute cherry on top for her.
Predeceased by beloved husband, Lew, and both of her younger siblings, she has now gone on to the ultimate reunion—rejoining her parents, her siblings, and the many aunts and uncles who went before her.
Through this tapestry she wove, she leaves behind her sons Randy Nevens and Lew Harvey and their wives Cindy and Jenn, 3 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, alongside the countless friends whose lives were made brighter by her independent spirit.
Visitation will be from 5-7 Saturday, August 15th, 2026, at Farris Funeral Service - Main Street Chapel Family and friends are welcome to her house afterwords or on Sunday.
The family of Retha Harvey is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory- Main Street Location, 427E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA 276-623-2700.
Farris Funeral Service – Main Street Chapel
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