Happy 88th Birthday, Harvey!  I think about Harvey so often, and I miss him greatly.

If possible I would like to connect with some of the people he mentioned to me:  his sister and brother, Beth and Bill, his "adopted" daughter or granddaughter whom he met in a southwestern state, and his good friend from India who was a pastor. 

Harvey Scott was the genuine article.  He was a man of integrity, a devout Christian and dedicated church goer.  He was honest, authentic in his dealings with others, and trustworthy.  His character was beyond reproach.  His feelings ran deep and he was truthful about where he stood on any issue.  He rose from humble beginnings, worked hard at his trade, was known for his mechanical ability and problem solving skills.   Harvey had stories of his mother and his siblings.  He shared his pride, worries, and concerns about his sons and daughter and grandson.  He valued his friends and neighbors and the people who were close to him.   He spoke fondly of Janie, of his clergyman friend from India and that man's son and daughter,  of the woman whom he "adopted" as his daughter, and of the young woman who looked after him during his last year of life.  His sense of humor was well known, and he was a great storyteller.  I remember the real life story about the bear who entered his trailer.  Harvey lived in simple, austere conditions.  He was impoverished and frugal but still managed to lend monetary and practical assistance to those in whose values he believed.  He was a good photographer.  He liked to read and write.  It was through his published story in Guidepost magazine (in the 1990s), about his dog Godshaux, that I first met Harvey.  We maintained a long-distance friendship, and he even flew out of state to attend my sons' weddings.  Harvey was a good person.   He was who he presented himself to be.  He never pretended to be otherwise.  He was not duplicitous, he didn't lie, he didn't demean others, and he didn't complain.  He inspired me simply by being the plain talking, decent man he was.  I laughed at his humor, admired his ability to live well despite hardships, appreciated his belief in God and his gratitude for life, family, and friends.  Harvey was one of a kind, one of the very best.  He leaves behind a unique footprint.  I am  honored to have known him, and I miss my infrequent phone conversations with him.  I would like to think that we shall meet again someday, in the after life.  I have no doubt that Harvey is rejoicing to be in heaven and that he is experiencing God's love, mercy, peace, forgiveness, and resplendent beauty.   I feel sure he will have amazing adventures throughout eternity.  I know that his soul is alive and well.

Nancy Sayeedi (nsayeedi99@gmail.com)

I was [ heartbroken] when I heard the news of Harvey's passing.

I was grateful he was no longer suffering. But saddened by the loss of my true friend. I will forever miss him.