It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Otto Harvey Jeffries, affectionately known as "Harv", a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who transitioned to eternal rest and peace on August 13, 2024, at the age of 79 in Durham, North Carolina. Harvey's remarkable life was marked by his devotion to family, passion for basketball, his love of music, and his sense of humor.

Harvey was born to the late Evelyn Hairston Jeffries and Otto Jeffries in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on March 13, 1945. He graduated from Atkins High School where he was a star on the school's basketball team. He graduated in 1964 and went on to play for North Carolina Central University. He had a successful career as a machine operator at Schlitz and later Stroh's Brewery Company for over 30 years.

Harvey was a devoted aficionado of music. He gained this love of music from his father, Otto Jeffries, an original member of the Five Royales, a groundbreaking rhythm and blues group from Winston-Salem. He found joy in listening to music and dancing with loved ones.  Even in his last days, he could be found singing and bobbing his head to Earth Wind & Fire and Maze & Frankie Beverly with his heart, his granddaughter, Whitley.

Harvey had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found swimming, working in the yard, grilling food or washing cars. He was also known for his sense of humor. His quick wit and playful jokes brought laughter and joy to everyone around him. Whether he was sharing a funny story or pulling a good-natured prank, he had a unique ability to make others laugh.

In addition to his parents, Harvey was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Gloria Webster Jeffries; his brothers, William "Tyrone" Jeffries and Curly Jeffries; and his mother-in-law, Mary Webster.

Left to cherish the memories of his love are his two devoted daughters, Micha Jeffries and Allana (Wendell) Taylor; only son, Timothy Habershaw; a cherished granddaughter, Whitley Carpenter and amazing granddaughters, Ava Taylor and Ella Taylor; an awesome grandson, Tate Taylor; sister, Barbara Debnam; father-in-law, Jarvis Webster, Sr. (Josephine); seven siblings-in-law, Sylvia Webster, Mazzini Webster, Sr., Jarvis Webster, Jr., Glenda Webster, Brian Webster, Stacie Webster, and Wanda Jeffries; and a host of relatives and dear friends who will forever remember him with fondness. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Harvey will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered for the joy he brought into our lives. May he rest in peace, knowing his spirit lives on through the laughter, music, and cherished memories he leaves behind.

A viewing will be held from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Russell Funeral Home.

A celebration of Harvey's life will be held at 1:00 PM on August 23, 2024, at the Gardens of Memory, where friends and family are invited to share memories and stories of his remarkable life.

"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25