Wilburn "Sam" Harvey

Wilburn C. "Sam" Harvey, a devoted educator, coach, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on February 8, 2025, in Abilene. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. His Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Bethel Assembly, 1611 Hailey St, Sweetwater, TX.

He was born on November 15, 1938, in his Grandad's house in the Palava Community of Fisher County to Chat and Tommie Harvey. The eldest of three children, he grew up with a deep sense of responsibility and a love for people, values that defined his life and career.

In 1945, his family moved to Sweetwater, where Sam began his educational journey at Philip Nolan Elementary and later graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1957. An accomplished athlete, he earned All-District and All-Area honors in basketball, which led to a scholarship at John Tarleton Agriculture and Mechanical College. After a brief break from school, he continued his education at Sul Ross State University, graduating in 1961.

Sam's career in education and coaching began at Lincoln Junior High in Abilene, where he quickly made an impact. He later returned to Sweetwater, where he met and married the love of his life, Doris Head, in 1968. Their love story was swift and enduring, spanning 56 wonderful years. Together, they raised two daughters, Natalie and Tammy, while Sam dedicated himself to shaping the lives of countless students and athletes.

His coaching journey took him to Roscoe, where he served as head basketball coach from 1968-1973, before transitioning to a counseling role with the Nolan County Cooperative. In 1975, he took on a demanding yet fulfilling coaching position in Hobbs, Texas, before returning to Abilene in 1976 to care for his father. There, he found his home at Wylie ISD, where he would spend the next 30 years as a coach, counselor, and bus driver, ultimately retiring as the district's testing coordinator in 2007. Over his 44-year career, Sam inspired generations of students with his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to their success. He was inducted into the Wylie Wall of Honor in 2018 and was very honored to be given this respected recognition.

In 2013, Sam and Doris returned to their hometown of Sweetwater, where they enjoyed their retirement years surrounded by family and dear friends. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Sam loved his Chevy hot-rods, animals, and most of all, spending cherished moments with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were his ultimate pride and joy.

Sam is survived by his loving wife, Doris; daughters, Natalie Berry (Kenny) and Tammy Layman (Tim); grandchildren, Stevie Ross (Dustin), Hunter Nall (Alex), and Cayden Nall; great-grandchildren, Shavelle, Creed, and Lynix Ross, and Archer Nall. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and the many students whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dalton; and one sister, Toni.

Sam Harvey's legacy of service, dedication, and love for his family and community will forever be remembered and cherished. His impact will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial donations in Sam's honor to Wylie Independent school district, 6251 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene, TX 79606 of the charity of your choice.