Harvey Leroy Kitchen

Harvey Leroy Kitchen, born July 26, 1964, left this world on July 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and heart-touching moments that will never be forgotten. In his 62 years, Harvey graced those around him with his generous spirit and unique humor, always striving to bring brightness into the lives he touched.

Born to Edgar Leroy Kitchen Sr. and Cora Dolly Kitchen, both of whom preceded him in passing, Harvey was raised with values that shaped him into the compassionate man we all came to love. He shared his childhood with siblings, including his late sister Eva Kitchen and brother Edgar Gallaher. Harvey’s sister, Rosemary Resseger (Terry) of Wheeling, survives him, cherishing a lifetime of memories and the special bond they shared.

After graduating from Wheeling Park High School as part of the Class of 1984, Harvey went on to work for Taco Bell. He approached every job, every relationship, and every moment with dedication and a contagious optimism. Work for Harvey wasn’t just about making a living; it was about connecting with others and bringing smiles to their faces.

A true artist at heart, Harvey was deeply creative and loved to draw. His artistic nature spilled over into every facet of his life, from his cherished hobbies to the way he looked at the world. He found joy in camping and fishing—simple pleasures that allowed him to connect with nature and those around him. Harvey’s love for the WWE was legendary, and his memories of having excellent seats at live events in Detroit were among his favorites to recount.

Road trips were a source of delight for Harvey, and his longtime friend Mark Reeder recalls adventures that spanned over three decades. Together, Harvey and Mark explored upstate New York and other destinations, filling each journey with excitement, spontaneity, and the unwavering joy of friendship. The fun and laughter they shared on the open road perfectly captures Harvey’s approach to life: always looking for adventure, always finding ways to make the ordinary extraordinary.

Harvey valued community and connection. He delighted in BBQs, concerts on the waterfront, and lively chats with friends. Never one to pass up a chance to socialize, he was a familiar face at gatherings and was known for his affectionate, flirtatious charm—a “lady’s man” in his own right, but always respectful and lighthearted.

Harvey’s family meant the world to him. He is survived by his beloved son, Patrick Leroy Hughes. Their deep bonds tell the story of a man who prioritized love, support, and loyalty. His friends, including Mark and Mary Reeder, remember him as someone who lit up the room, who was always ready with a joke, and whose outspoken nature was matched by a tremendous heart.

His character shone brightest in the values he lived by. A proud Boy Scout, Harvey is remembered for acts of honesty and integrity—like the day he found a large sum of money and promptly returned it. These moments, though small, defined the person he was: honorable, generous, and always striving to do right by others.

To those around him, Harvey was a jokester who, by his own admission, believed himself to be hilarious—and more often than not, he was right. Outspoken, creative, and endlessly kind, Harvey never hesitated to put others first, always doing his best for those he loved.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Hope United Methodist Church, located at 99 Valley Blvd, Wheeling, WV 26003, to honor Harvey’s memory and all that he brought into the world.

Though Harvey Leroy Kitchen has left this earthly home, the laughter he shared, the warmth he brought, and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His story continues in the cherished memories and enduring bonds he created, reminding us all of what it means to live fully, love deeply, and give generously.

A Crowdfunding page is set up below to defray cost to help if you can. Schuetz Funeral Home is assisting the family.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com