Willia Harvell

Willia Mae Harvell, affectionately known as “Billie,” was born on April 21, 1954, in Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to the late Mary and Caloway Reeves Sr. She entered into eternal peace on August 28, 2025—a day of profound meaning, as it was both her mother’s birthday and the day her only son, Frank Jr., was also called home. It was also the day her beloved daughter Makia was eulogized years earlier, on August 28, 2009. Willia was preceded in death by her sisters Valerie Dillard, Arnetta Cox, and Kim Burchett, as well as her brothers Terry, Bruce, Torrence, and Elliott (Keith) Reeves.

Willia’s life was a testament to her faith and her deep love for family. She accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the Reverend Shellie R. Doughty Sr. She was a virtuous woman, a true servant leader, and a dedicated worshipper who could often be heard proclaiming, “He’s Worthy” or “Yea Lord!” Her faithful service included many proud moments, such as serving as President of the DJW Pastoral Choir for eight years and teaching Sunday School. Until her health began to fail, she was actively involved in the Ohio Baptist General Convention (OBGC) and the Eastern Union Missionary Baptist Association (EUMBA). She loved leading the Children’s Band, chaperoning retreats, and teaching at annual women’s gatherings. Even when her health declined, Willia remained an encourager—praying for, ministering to, and uplifting others.

A graduate of Linden McKinley High School, Willia initially pursued nursing before discovering her passion for early childhood education, eventually earning an associate degree. She devoted many years to supporting children and families through her work at Franklin County Children Services. Her greatest joy came when she became a grandmother, prompting her retirement so she could become a full-time caregiver. She was affectionately known as “Grandma” to over 50 children she helped raise throughout her life, and her heart overflowed each time they returned to visit her as adults.

Her union of love with her devoted husband of 52 years, Frank Harvell, gave them four children: Monica “Nikki” Harvell, Michele “Shelly” Harvell, Frank “Jay Jay or Jerk” Harvell Jr. (who preceded her in death on August 28, 2021), and Makia “Kia” Harvell. Makia was called home on August 23, 2009, not long after blessing the family with their first granddaughter, Akaiya, whom Willia and Frank legally adopted.

Willia shared a special and unbreakable bond with her first grandson, Gregory. When her health began to fail, he selflessly donated a kidney to her—a true act of love that gave her precious time with her family. This deep connection was a reflection of the love she poured into all of her grandchildren and the many children she cared for throughout her life.

Willia leaves a legacy of love and cherished memories with her husband, Frank Harvell; her children, Monica “Nikki” Harvell, Michele “Shelly” Harvell, and Akaiya “Kewi” Harvell; a stepdaughter, Barbara Robinson; her goddaughter Tanieka “Trina” Walker; and grandchildren Gregory Johnson, Christopher (Ndey)Johnson, Ishmael Harvell, and Raegan Harvell. She was also a doting great-grandmother to Ghani, Gaia, and Christopher “Duece” Johnson.

She is survived by her brothers Caloway (Jonnie) Reeves, Michael (Darlene) Reeves, and Kevin Reeves, and her sisters Tobbi (Moses) Herriot and Tamera (Leonard) Valentine. She will also be dearly missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—including Tracie Evelyn and Tiana (Omesh) Mohabir, whom she affectionately referred to as her “Daughter/niece”; and also by two special friends she called sisters: Deborah McKnight and Lottie Skipper.

She also leaves behind her cherished family friends Debbie Flemming, Frincine Hayes, Blaine O’Leary, and her beloved daughter-in-law Stache Wood (widow of Frank Harvell Jr.), whose love and support brought great comfort to the family in recent years.

Willia’s life was a beautiful example of unconditional love and unwavering faith. Her warmth, generous spirit, and joyful proclamation of “He’s Worthy” will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her.