Jimmy Lee Harward

Jimmy Lee Harward, affectionately known as Jimmy Lee, graced this world with his spirit on February 7, 1962, in Durham, NC, and departed from it on December 14, 2024, in Creedmoor, NC, embraced by the love of family. His life was a tapestry woven with laughter, hard work, and the fervent brushstrokes of an excellent painter, who diligently served countless real estate transactions with his artistry in repairs and new paint.

Raised within the nurturing arms of the Oxford Orphanage alongside his four sisters, Jimmy cultivated a resilience that would illuminate his character throughout his life. The principles of strength, integrity, and perseverance became his guiding lights, giving him the fortitude to navigate life’s obstacles. Though his journey came with trials, his heart remained generous and jovial; he had an infectious laugh that echoed warmth and camaraderie to those fortunate enough to know him.

Jimmy is survived by cherished loved ones, including his significant other, Carmen Clay, and his daughter, Victoria, step daughters, Cathy Tice and Christine Hood and his grandchildren, Timothy, Skylar, Khloe and Autumn, who brought boundless joy into his world. His legacy of love extends to his sisters, Nancy Tyner ( Gary) and Donna Weaver, who were lifelong companions in both struggle and celebration. The gentle hearts of Gizmo, Prissy, Sissy, and Ziggy, his devoted animal companions, stood faithfully by his side, offering solace and joy in the quiet moments of life.

He leaves behind a constellation of nieces and nephews — Jeff Tyner (Renee), Mike Tyner, Wendy Valerio, Christy Valerio, Becky Richardson, Billie Jo Reaves, Josh Weaver (Jennifer), and many extended family and friends too numerous to name — whose lives he enriched with wisdom and laughter. Each shared moment with them weaved a thread of connection that will endure through time.

Though he now rests with his beloved parents, Bobby Lee Harward and Zula Marie Overman Harward, and his sisters, Carolyn Page and Becky Flores, in the embrace of eternal tranquility, Jimmy Lee's spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those he touched. His life was not merely lived but celebrated, a vibrant dance of creativity, compassion, and the pure joy of togetherness.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 11, 2025, at 11:00 am,  at 503 College St, Oxford, NC, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable journey of a man who knew how to paint life in vivid colors and rich textures. His legacy is a canvas left for us all to admire and cherish, as we remember a life well lived, a heart well loved, and a spirit that will never fade.

Flowers are welcomed or memorials may be made in his honor to the Granville County Animal Shelter, 515 New Commerce Drive, Oxford, NC 27565.

The Harward family is compassionately being cared for by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan, 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.  Online memorials may be made at :www.gnvfuneralhome.com