Vivien Fay (VanMeter) Harvey

Vivien Fay Harvey, known affectionately as "Cis" to her family and friends, and fondly as "Grandma" by her grandchildren, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2024, at the age of 82, in Lancaster, Ohio. She was born on May 6, 1941, in Townsend, Montana, to the late E. Paul VanMeter and Lydia Barthule VanMeter.

Vivien was one of sixteen children, born into a large family that shaped her values of resilience and compassion. She bravely stepped into the role of caregiver when her mother passed away, opening her home to her siblings with unwavering love and devotion. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Ed VanMeter, Vic VanMeter, Virginia Ervin, Peggy Kopis, Carol VanMeter, John VanMeter, and Kenny VanMeter. She is survived by her siblings, Paula Meadows, Pat VanMeter, Jeri VanMeter, Wes (Carla) VanMeter, Tracy (Gina) VanMeter, Therese VanMeter, Brian VanMeter, and Vicki VanMeter. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Phyllis VanMeter and Lori VanMeter and many nieces and nephews.

Vivien graduated from Shawnee High School in 1959 and went on to lead a life dedicated to her family and community.

A devoted wife to her late husband, John "Jack" Moran Harvey, Vivien shared 45 wonderful years with him until his passing in 2004. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Vivien was a loving and nurturing presence in the lives of her six children: Keely Thompson (Mike), Bill Harvey (Janet), Carmel Woodward (Russell), Kevin Harvey, John Harvey (Kim), and Vincent Harvey. Her grandchildren Christopher, Tara Nicole, Jessie, Lauren, JC, Justice, Bill, David, Steven, Callie, Kyle, Bryce, and Jake held a special place in her heart, and she adored them deeply. She was also a doting great-grandmother to Jadon, Caelyn, Chloe, Dante, Chase, Cameron, Bree, Audriana, David, Nathan, Gunner, Gage, Tegan, Ryder, and Haizlee.

Vivien herself was an active individual who played sports and relished watching her children and grandchildren participate in athletic events. She particularly cherished cheering for her beloved Buckeyes.

Her family knew her as a hard worker with a no-nonsense attitude, yet she was always generous and helpful to those in need. Vivien was known for her honesty, integrity, and straightforwardness, qualities that endeared her to all who knew her.

Outside of her family commitments, Vivien enjoyed hobbies such as crocheting and cooking. She created beautiful pieces through her crocheting and delighted in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones.

Vivien will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kind heart, strong spirit, and unwavering love leave an indelible mark on the lives of those she touched.

A funeral service to celebrate Vivien's life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday April 6, 2024, at the J.E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Shawnee, with Christopher Thompson officiating.

Interment: Shawnee Cemetery

Friends may call from 2-8 P.M. on Friday April 5, 2024, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Vivien Fay Harvey to the Shawnee Volunteer Fire Department or the Shawnee Gymnasium Fund in care of the Village of Shawnee P.O. Box 15 Shawnee, Ohio 43782.

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