Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
JERRY HARVEY Obituary
HARVEY JERRY B. HARVEY, Ph.D. Jerry Harvey passed away on August 1, 2015, of complications from Parkinson's disease and congestive heart failure. He was born in Austin, Texas, on November 14, 1935. He earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Texas, and remained an avid fan of the Texas Longhorns. He married his beloved wife, Beth, on August 4, 1962. He was the loving father of Scott Harvey and Suzanne Harvey (deceased). Jerry was a Professor Emeritus of Management at the George Washington University. During his career he also served as a consultant to a wide variety of industrial, governmental, religious, military, educational and charitable organizations. He authored approximately 50 professional articles, and two books, "The Abilene Paradox and Other Meditations on Management" and "How Come Every Time I Get Stabbed in the Back, My Fingerprints Are on the Knife? " He is also featured in several videos and a short film focusing on organizational behavior, including "The Asoh Defense," "The Gunsmoke Phenomenon," and "The Abilene Paradox". "Taking a trip to Abilene" has become a widely recognized metaphor for unproductive group behavior. Jerry lived an extraordinary life and his academic, professional, and personal accomplishments were all grounded on a bedrock of honesty. He advocated telling the truth to everyone (especially oneself), which he practiced with his unique blend of humor and compassion. He touched many lives and shaped them for the better. In addition to his wife and son, he will be sorely missed by his daughter-in-law Matilda; his brother-in-law James Wilder and his wife Virginia; and a host of former students, colleagues and friends. Visitation will be held at McLean Baptist Church on Friday evening from 5 to 7 p.m., and a funeral on Saturday morning at 11 a.m., also at McLean Baptist Church, 1367 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McLean Baptist Church, the Salvation Army, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and fond memories of Jerry may be offered to the family at www.moneyandking.comwww.moneyandking.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JERRY HARVEY
Sponsored by Ozzie Gontang & Vistage 29.
Steve & MarySandra Foster
July 30, 2025
Jerry is not forgotten in our house. I am proud to say that my daughter, Elizabeth, got her degrees from George Washington University where Jerry taught. My Company used to use Jerry's video about the Abilene Paradox in our management training. It was a brilliant teaching moment, and participants found it insightful and humorous, just like Jerry. Years ago, I spoke with him and told him how much we valued his work. There's a beautiful biblical passage that describes Jerry succinctly: "The upright man walks in his integrity". (Proverbs 20:7). Today, my wife and I are offering a prayer of thanks to God for the life of Jerry Harvey. May God bless his family, Steve and MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Leopold Vansina
July 31, 2023
Jerry, it is very hard to forget you, my friend and inspiration. Leopold Vansina
Steve Foster
July 30, 2022
I remember communicating with Jerry some years ago to let him know how vast his influence was on others beyond George Washington (where my older daughter got both her bachelors and masters degrees). In the corporate world, we used "The Abilene Paradox" video as part of our management training. It remains an American classic in its sublime wisdom. I told Jerry that I could see his positive influence on one of his students, Dave Gartenberg, who worked with me, and was a great talent himself. Jerry was a product of a great university (Texas) himself, but it was his humility and devotion to his craft that really was his hallmark. May he rest in peace, and may his family know how much the world revered him. We need more good people like him to make a better world. All our love and prayers, Steve and MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Joe Motheral
July 30, 2022
Here´s to one of the greatest and a dear friend
Margaret Gorman
July 30, 2021
The profound impact of Jerry's work, his passionate for developing others through thought provoking questions, his humor & compassion, and his unique approach to our field is felt today more than ever. And while there are still trips to Abeline, atleast these some of us have learned about to help groups avoid.
It was true honor to have him at my dissertation defense.
Steve Foster
July 30, 2021
I used to do alot of management training for our Company, a Fortune 100 chemical company, and we used Jerry Harvey's "Abilene Paradox" constantly. Participants loved it for its wonderful insights and humor. Some years ago, I spoke with Jerry directly, and he was typically humble when I told him how much we enjoyed it. He demonstrated that humor in teaching pays huge dividends. I live now in Texas, and think of him whenever I pass through Abilene. My daughter, Elizabeth, got her bachelors and masters degrees at George Washington, and a protege and dear friend of mine, Dave Gartenberg, was a student of Jerry's at GW. We all miss him and celebrate the wisdom he preserved for us. Rest in peace, and may God bless the entire Harvey Family. With pround respect, and thanks, Steve and MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Joe Motheral
July 30, 2021
He was quite a guy. I played golf with him and dined with him. A great guy.
Steve & MarySandra Foster
March 18, 2020
I stumbled across Jerry's obituary today in 2020. I spoke with him in the late 90's when my daughter was a student at George Washington University. One of his students, Dave Gartenberg, worked with me and we had a mutual respect and appreciation for Dr.Harvey. I used "The Abilene Paradox" many times in management training I conducted in our Company. May God bless Jerry and watch over his family. Steve & MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
You will always live with me
Dr Nishant K Ranjan
July 12, 2019
During 2007-09 I had the opportunity to correspond with him on multiple instances through email, while I was involved with teaching. Then during our correspondence he referred to his writeup on how not to teach. Of course, people know him mostly for his Abilene Paradox, but his wisdom was beyond some of the management ideas that we know thorough his writings. I can refer to some of his emails where he had expressed his philosophical ideas beyond management, but probably this is not the place. I can only wish: Prof Harvey will live with us for ever, since our existence is all about our ideas. May you never rest and keep others all the more restless with your ideas! Live long, Professor!
Andrejka
March 27, 2017
Around 2008 I encountered Professor Harvey's work in a VHS titled "Group Tyranny and the Gunsmoke Phenomenon" at my former local library in Oregon. They no longer carry VHS recordings yet I still remember the video. Today I was looking up copies and for current articles until I saw this obituary. My very first You Tube video was recommending Group Tyranny and the Gunsmoke Phenomenon. And I just listened to my first episode of the radio show version of Gunsmoke yesterday. Perhaps now I can get more of the context of the concept. Thank you Professor for your legacy!
Duncan Sutherland
May 23, 2016
By "refusing to teach" Jerry changed my life!
Martyn Dyer-Smith
November 29, 2015
In 1995 I had the privilege and pleasure of sharing Jerry's office in GWU. He remains one of the handful of folk I have respected and admired without reservation. He could entrance and make me laugh. Whilst I was in Washington I reviewed a few of his stories pre-publication. I had to ask, "Jerry, are these stories true?". "True Martyn," he said, "but I wouldn't vouch for their historical accuracy." I believe he had been a lay-preacher. His best stories were parables. It was a delight to hear him say, "Did I ever tell you how ..?". His cowboy-boots would go up on the desk and I would sit back and listen to another gem of observation and wisdom. Those stories live with me now.
(I was a bit upset when I sent my previous entry and made a few mistakes - MDS)
Martyn Dyer-Smith
November 29, 2015
In 1995 I had the privilege and pleasure of sharing Jerry's office in GWU. He remains one of a handful of folk I have respected and admired without reservation. He he could entrance and make me laugh. Whilst I was in Washington I reviewed a few of his stories pre-publication. I had to ask, "Jerry,are these stories true?". "True Martyn," he said, "but I wouldn't vouch for their historical accuracy." I believe Jerry had been a lay-preacher. His best stories were parables. It was delight to to hear him say, "Did you ever tell you how ..?". His cowboy-boots would go up on the desk and I would sit back and listen to another gem of observation and wisdom. Those stories live with me now.
Miles Davis
October 25, 2015
Dr. Harvey was my doctoral advisor and out of all the professors I ever had his impact on me and my thinking was the most profound. His exploration of ethical, moral and spiritual issues in organizations, along with his tome "Learning not to Teach" set the framework for my consulting to organizations and approach to classroom learning. I miss his counsel and interacting with his intellect and spirit.
Paula Caproni
September 29, 2015
I just saw Dr. Harvey's obituary because I always show the Abilene Paradox video in my classes (and it's playing now as I write this tribute to Dr. Harvey. One of the participants in the class looked up Jerry Harvey and found that he had passed away. My sympathies to Dr Harvey's family. Know that his thoughtful messages are still alive and changing lives in classrooms for students and executives around the world.
Sheri Benjamin
August 24, 2015
Jerry's book "How Come Every Time I Get Stabbed in the Back my Fingerprints are on the Knife? And Others Meditations on Management" is one of my all time favorite business books. As part of TEC/Vistage for the last 24 years, I have been known to quote major parts of it. God speed Jerry! What an insightful intellect.
Ozzie Gontang
August 17, 2015
I was introduced to Jerry through Pat Murray. Jerry's influence has touched the lives of all my family and saved us from so many unnecessary trips to Abilene and seeing our fingerprints when wanting to play the victim.
His spirit lives on in the retelling of his stories and will do so for generations to come. He truly touched and influenced thousands of CEOs, company presidents and business owners through his work withTEC and Vistage Chairs and members.
Mixed with the sorrow on the news of his death is the gratitude for having been touched by the gift of his life. With love, appreciation and friendship.
Millions impacted
Glenn Waring
August 16, 2015
For 21 years I've enjoyed being a TEC/Vistage chair, and I've seen Jerry's impact radiate into the numerous circles of these CEOs. Many frequently refer to Abilene, Captain Asoh, and Jaques. We aim to honor his work by sharing it.
Tim Newcome
August 14, 2015
I was introduced to Jerry's advanced musings on Organizational Behavior and other aligned and mis-aligned topics through my membership of TEC 371 in Columbus, OH. Jerry traveled to Columbus and spoke to our group a number of times and I truly benefited from talking with him and being inspired by him to look deeper into all things. He was often a source for my reflections on business and life. Thank you, Jerry, for enriching my personal and business life!
Joe Motheral
August 10, 2015
I had the pleasure of interviewing Jerry Harvey for a story. I never enjoyed an interview more than that one. Played golf with him and thanks to The Wilsons had an occasional lunch with him. I can safely say that he was a very
special person and I feel privileged to have known him.
Michael Ryan
August 7, 2015
Dr. Harvey impact on his students and the world around him will be his living legacy in addition to his family beautiful memories.
I just learn of his passing today. However, this week I was writing in a Silicon Valley entrepreneurial forum about his teachings and theories and made specific reference to his most famous paradox. I was fortunate to have him as a professor and academic advise while at GWU's School of Business in early 1980s. I often model his remarkable kindness, compassion and great humor in my daily life. May he rest in peace and his memories be a blessing.
Amenaua Foy
August 7, 2015
Jerry Harvey was one of the two people in my life who would not accept my mediocrity and insisted on my superlative performance. He was as much a coach as a teacher, bringing out the best in those under his tutelage. I forever will feel grateful for having been one of those whom he accepted under his wings.
Leopold Vansina
August 7, 2015
Jerry was an inspiring and sensitive person. Listening to him, or reading his books created a deep change in oneself.I lost a dear friend and colleague. I'm grateful to have met you, Jerry.
William Sparks
August 5, 2015
Dr. Harvey continues to impact my teaching, writing and thinking. We traded email messages a few weeks ago and when I expressed to him how much he continues to influence me, he said that I should know by now that he takes no credit for any growth, nor responsibility for any regression, I might experience. Classic Dr. Harvey. A one-in-a-million ... my thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Ray & Laura Gibbons
August 5, 2015
Dear Beth and Scott: Most of his life was great. For he walked in God's Love with his endless faith. Jerry made many friends along this journey called life. He touched us with love from the core of his heart and I know he loved you both unconditionally. The LORD has lifted him up and he received his well deserved wings.
Margaret Gorman
August 5, 2015
Dr. Harvey forever transformed how I thought about relating to others. His compassion for students' learning and his unwavering commitment to push us all to not settle on our lily pads is inspirational. I feel so blessed to have seen his brilliance in the classroom and to have experience his humor and empathy. He was so kind, that everytime we communicated - he would always ask about my mother (& her umbrella) - a funny story from my dissertation defense over a decade ago.
Marilyn Liebrenz-Himes
August 5, 2015
Dear Family, Jerry was such an inspiration. I was a new prof at GWU and he just made me feel right at home as well as important. He captivated everyone, and his down-country manner made his talks and teaching even more memorable. He was so special. Sincerely, Marilyn Liebrenz-Himes
Anita Carter
August 5, 2015
May you and your family find peace in your time of sorrow.
Joan Davenport
August 5, 2015
Scott, please accept my condolences on the passing of your father. I had an opportunity to read his books and his analysis of workplace behavior was right on.
Be blessed at this time of sorrow.
Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results
Make a Donation
in JERRY HARVEY's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for JERRY HARVEY
Funeral services provided by:
Money and King Funeral Home and Cremation Services171 Maple Avenue W, Vienna, VA 22180
How to support JERRY's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor JERRY HARVEY's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
