Harvey Daniel Person was welcomed to his eternal home in the early morning of April 23, 2026 with his daughters near.

Harvey was born July 29, 1939 to Charlie and Mertie Person in Hannibal, Missouri. He lived in Hannibal until 2018, when he and his treasured wife Lila moved to Springfield, Missouri to be closer to medical care and family.

Harvey and Lila built a home and family together over the course of their 63 years of marriage. Harvey worked hard to provide for his wife and children. As a railroad engineer for Burlington Northern/BNSF, Harvey often paid in cash while on jobs. He always saved his change. Harvey prided himself in saving enough change each year to take his family on memorable road trip vacations, where Lila was the navigator and chief map holder. He particularly enjoyed trips to the Badlands, Myrtle Beach, Gatlinburg, Hawaii, and Colorado. As the family would travel across the country, they always made a point to stop and visit extended family along the way.

Harvey’s commitment to sweets was undeniable. He’d often be caught with his hand in the cookie jar or trying to sneak a late night treat from the fridge. His eyes would light up any time dessert was mentioned. Hours before Harvey left this world, his daughters spoiled him with any treat he asked for – his request was a Reese’s peanut butter cup and cold glass of milk and a stack of homemade pancakes.

Harvey loved being surrounded by his family. He is survived by children Daniel (Sylvia) Person, son-in-law Jimmy Allen, Jennifer (Travis) Holmes, and Marisa DeClue (Brady Dryden). His grandkids were so special – Michael Allen (Talei), Aaron Allen, Patrischia Voepel (Aaron), Sarah Brown (Ryan), Rheannon Fohey (Chris), Kelsi Person, Dalis Harlan (Erika), Gunnar Person (Anna), Madison Person (Jackson Ott), Marin DeClue, Andrew Holmes, and Taeo DeClue; and 20 great-grandchildren. Harvey is also survived by a host of brothers and sisters in law and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his true love, Lila; daughter Leah Allen; parents; and brothers Charles and Delbert; many extended family; and dear friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the care team from Haven Hospice – particularly Melissa and Jenny. He looked forward to their visits and any opportunity to keep them on their toes. Also serving the family were “his girls” Lani Taganeca, Bella Taganeca, Donita Hall, Janet Nothnagel, and Kate Black. This group of ladies allowed Harvey to stay in the comfort of his home, while receiving hospice care. It would be a shame not to mention how special weekly family dinners with Michael, Talei (his “number one”), Lani, Leah, and Harvey (H2) were to him.

Private cremation services were held at Greenlawn Funeral Home, per his wishes.