Gifts & Memorial Donations

Michael Hervey, 65, of Williamsburg, passed away on May 10, 2023.

Mike graduated from Sacred Heart High School in East Grand Forks, MN and then went on to earn a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in urban and regional planning from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. His career was initially sparked and pathway set by an entry-level college course in which students analyzed The Concrete Jungle by Upton Sinclair, a fictional expose on the working conditions of immigrant laborers. His field afforded him many opportunities to work in a variety of positions that included Senior Planner for Community Development in Richmond, Va, Executive Director of Farish Street Historic District Neighborhood foundation in Jackson, Ms, and Chief Financial Officer for Affordable Housing Solutions in Tallahassee, FL to name a few. In addition, he contributed greatly to the Dora Finley African-American Heritage Trail in Mobile, AL. by writing and securing grants for the foundation.

Mike was quite the high school athlete excelling in both football and wrestling. He was a two-time state champion in wrestling and an All American in Football where he was given the distinction of having his number “33” retired. Mike loved current events, history, chess, music, movies, concerts, fishing, and was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed getting together with family and friends. He loved traveling, presenting talks, and visiting museums with Joycelyn and treasured the relationship he had with his stepchildren Joy and David.

Mike was an amazing husband, son, brother, father, and friend with visionary ideas and lots of energy that was quite contagious. Although plagued with many health issues in his latter years, he never complained and was always touching base with family and friends to be sure they were doing well. He had a big heart and will be missed.

Mike is preceded in death by his father, Roosevelt Hervey; brother, Stephen Hervey; and former wife, Joycelyn Hervey Finley. He is survived by his two step children, Joy Celestia and Elazon Finley; Mother, Violet Marie Hervey; Sister, Regina Yitbarek and husband Ephraim; Sister Donna Jones and husband Richard; two nieces Rachel and Hannah Hervey; nephew Shawn Mitchell and wife Melody; and two great nephews Jyire and Senaj Mitchell.

The funeral Mass will take place at 9:00 AM on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at St. Bede Catholic Church followed by placing his urn in the Columbarium and reception to follow. Click here to live stream the service.

Memorial Mass

Thursday, May 18, 2023
9:00 AM

Saint Bede Catholic Church - Directions
3686 Ironbound Road
Williamsburg, VA 23188

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Tribute Wall

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May 24, 2023

Anne Zarling says:

Michael Hervey is present in many of my high school memories at SHHS. He was an athletic force of nature who raised our competitive level of play in both football and wrestling. I remember his support, also, of younger brother, Stephen, and I thought that was a good big brother. My younger brother, also a wrestler, emulated Mike's qualities. Truly, a role model. Mike had stature (swag) and a demeanor that must have carried him into his future and continued successes. A lovely gentleman and dance partner. Remembering his boyish chuckle fills my heart (and maybe my eyes). Thankful for your friendship, Mike. Anne (Kelly) Zarling
May 17, 2023

Roscoe C Roberts says:

Mike was my loyal and true friend, and we experienced many of life’s happy moments, adventures, and tribulations together. I met him when he was a graduate student in urban planning at Virginia Commonwealth University during the 1982-83 academic school year. Mike was considered a member of our family because he was in our wedding, godfather to our oldest son, and a fixture at school graduations and countless family gatherings. My sons have always called him “Uncle Mike”. I shall always remember our fishing trips with his father, Mr. Hervey, because I always reaped a bountiful catch. And our guys trip to the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament in New Orleans was an adventure like no other!! We will miss his gregarious nature, his humor, his intellect, his happy spirit, and his kind and loving manner. I will never forget my good and loyal friend. My deepest condolences I offer to his mother, Mrs. Hervey, his sisters Regina and Donna and their families, and his nieces and other family members. Roscoe Roberts, for the Roberts' family
May 17, 2023

Dr. Joyce A. Martin says:

My heart and prayers are with you all in this time of grief!! I love my wonderful cousin Michael and I know he is with our Heavenly Father. May God’s peace, mercy, grace, and love continue to fill each family member’s heart. Remember you aren’t alone. God promises to never leave us. Aunt Violet and cousin Regina, we are with you all in the spirit!! Love, Dr. Joyce A. Martin Oxford, Ms.
May 17, 2023

Rev. Kenny Hoskins and family says:

Farewell cousin Michael! No more pain or sorrow. I was always happy when you all came to Ms to visit. Always full of laughter and joy! My condolences to Aunt Violet , Regina,Donna and all the rest of my family. Praying for your peace and strength. Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.
May 17, 2023

Vanessa Robinson Kelly says:

My heart and sincere condolences goes out to my Aunt Violet and my cousin Regina and Donna and the entire family of Mr. Michael Hervey. Michael was very free spirited and he would prank you just like his Dad would. I loved when they would come to Mississippi to visit, they were great cousins and loving family to me. I will miss you Michael. May God give you all family peace and comfort that he is in great place with Jesus. Amen

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