Harvey Ralph Durham

Harvey Ralph Durham, 88, of Boone, NC, died May 15, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Perry, Florida, on February 25,1938 to Clara Swift Durham and William Ralph Durham, Harvey would live a long life of leadership, dedication to family, service to community, and an endless love of learning. 

Harvey was raised in Thomasville, Georgia, except for five years in Philadelphia, PA during the war, graduating from Thomasville High School in 1955. He earned a bachelor of science in mathematics at Wake Forest University in 1959, serving as Student Body President, as well as Chair of the Honor Council and president of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Harvey further earned his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in mathematics at the University of Georgia before pursuing a lifelong career in academia.

Little did Harvey realize that when taking on a position in 1965 as assistant professor in the mathematics department of Appalachian State University, that he would remain a faithful educator and servant to the school for nearly 40 years. Driven by his devotion to student learning and fierce advocacy for faculty and staff, Harvey assumed various roles which led to 24 years as vice chancellor for academic affairs and provost, concluding his career as interim chancellor from 2003 to 2004.

Throughout his career and into retirement, Harvey served his community and state on various boards concluding with the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation as trustee and board chair. As father to three boys, he also made the time to coach youth baseball. He was honored numerous times over the years, most notably including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the ASU Bell Ringers Society, and the naming of ASU’s Durham Park to mark his and wife Susan’s years of dedication to the school.

Of all his life roles, Harvey’s favorite was as grandfather. Known as “Beep Beep”, he maintained a steady influence, instilling a love of learning in his four grandchildren. He and Susan hosted “Camp Durham” each summer in the early years, taking them to explore historical sites and museums in cities throughout the United States. As camp historian, Harvey was chief photographer and compiled photo albums commemorating trips for each grandchild that are treasured keepsakes today. He inspired them with his avid reading on many subjects, and his pursuit of new hobbies such as watercolor pencil art. He delighted in all of the traditions of Christmas, making it magical for the family. For over 50 years, Harvey proudly served his homemade recipes for pancakes and syrup to his children and grandchildren, giving Susan a break from kitchen duty. Most importantly he taught his whole family about integrity, kindness, fairness, and living with humor and gratitude.

Predeceased by his parents, Harvey is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Susan Durham of Boone; son Bill Durham (Carolyn) of Wesley Chapel, NC; son Bryan Durham (Carol Anne) of Wilmington; son David Durham of Charlotte; and grandchildren Grace, Noah, David, and Lane. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Ruth Hydrick and numerous nephews and nieces.

The family will host a Celebration of Life reception at ASU’s Grandview Ballroom August 1, 2026 from 2 - 4 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Harvey R. Durham Freshman Advocacy Award, ASU FOUNDATION, PO Box 32064, Boone NC 28608; to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation 717 S. Marshall St. Suite 105B, Winston-Salem, NC 27101-5865; or to the charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Durham family.

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