Bobby Joe Harvey, age 78, of Magnet Cove, Arkansas, passed away suddenly on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at his home. He was born on September 30, 1946, in Amity, Arkansas, to James Tolleson Harvey and Louise Ballard Harvey Bailey.

Bobby lived a full and rewarding life, dedicating himself to his family, friends, and his community. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Kathy; daughters Lori Cloninger (Rusty) of Benton, Arkansas, and Jennifer Harvey (Jason Watkins) of Royal, Arkansas; grandsons Brett Cloninger (Abby) of Benton, Arkansas, and Brandon Cloninger (Kristin) of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; and great-grandchildren Parker Kate and Harper Cloninger, Beau Cloninger, and he was excited to welcome Beau's new brother, Brooks, who is due to arrive in September.  They will all grow up hearing stories of their Papaw's love and legacy. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Bobby was preceded in death by his father, James Tolleson Harvey; mother, Louise Ballard Harvey Bailey; stepfather, William H. "Bucky" Bailey; sisters Jamie Dunklin and Joyce Nugent; and stepbrother, William H. Bailey Jr.

A proud Army veteran, Bobby served as a helicopter door gunner during the Vietnam War. His service to his country was an important part of who he was, and he carried those values of duty and sacrifice with him throughout his life. In 1980, he co-founded the Magnet Cove Volunteer Fire Department, where he dedicated 45 years as president of the board and assistant chief, exemplifying his commitment to community service.

In addition to his work with the fire department, Bobby worked for 30 years at ALCOA as a boiler operator in the power house before retiring. He continued to serve his community by working in the maintenance department at National Park Medical Center for 10 years after his retirement from ALCOA.

Bobby was an active member of the North Malvern Assembly of God Church, where he found strength and fellowship in his faith. He was also a 32nd degree Mason at the Rockport Masonic Lodge No. 58. He loved spending his free time traveling, camping, attending his grandson's and great-grandchildren's sporting events, fishing, hunting, and tending to his garden. He was known for his mechanical aptitude and ability to fix almost anything and was always there to help those in need. Bobby's legacy is one of dedication to his family and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 9, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Regency Funeral Home in Malvern, Arkansas. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, April 10th, at 10 am, at North Malvern Assembly of God Church, officiated by Brother Keith Pennington and Brother Roger Wall. Pallbearers include son-in-law Rusty Cloninger; grandsons Brett and Brandon Cloninger; nephews Robert and Kevin Young; and Jason Watkins. Honorary pallbearers are members of the Magnet Cove Volunteer Fire Department. Interment will be at Rockport Cemetery with full military honors and Last Call.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Magnet Cove Volunteer Fire Department.