Gary Paul Harvell, 65 of Collinsville, IL, born July 26, 1955, went to his eternal home on May 12, 2021, with his daughter Samantha by his side. Gary was preceded in death by his loving wife of 43 years, Linda Marie (Thouvenot) Harvell. In addition to his wife, Gary was preceded in death by his father, Harley “Buddy” Poole, and mother, Edna Ruth Kinder.
Surviving are Gary’s two devoted daughters, Angela Marie and Samantha Lynn Harvell; and his only grandson, Noah Matthew Harvell, the light of his life; and his two precious furbabies, Bella Maria and Mia Rose; Gary was son-in-law of Robert Lee and Mary Lou nee Sweeney Thouvenot, Siblings; Mary (David) Lipsey, Debra (Robert) Muesenfechter, Robert (Peggy) Thouvenot and Cheryl (Jeffrey) Barnett; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and two “Brothers in Arms” Albert Lee and Ed Witham.
Gary was a proud decorated Army Veteran who served his country from 1980-1993. He was the definition of a true patriot. He served in the Gulf War/Operation Desert Storm/Shield. Gary never passed by a soldier (past or present) without expressing his gratitude for their service to their country, a trait he proudly passed on to his daughters and grandson.
You loved us more, we will always love you most. To the moon and beyond! Every day, around the clock, always remember, you were our rock. To honor Gary, and to keep his memory alive, please take every opportunity to “Thank a Veteran”. Their service doesn’t always end upon their discharge, as many soldiers like Gary, suffer from service connected illnesses or disabilities for the rest of their lives.
Visitation will be 10:30 a.m. to 12 :30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, Maryville, IL. Masks are required to be worn while in the funeral home.
Funeral service will be at 12:30 p.m. following the visitation with Father John Beveridge, Brother In Arms Edward Witham and Mike Winn officiating. Burial with full military honors will be in SS Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, Collinsville, IL.
Memorial contributions may be made to: The National Gulf War Resource Center, Scleroderma Foundation or Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and will be received at the visitation or can be mailed to the funeral home at 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at barrywilsonfuneralhome.com
