Harvey E. Stillings

Mr. Harvey E. Stillings, a longtime resident of Reading, passed away unexpectedly on March 31, 2014 at home, at age 66. Harvey was born on June 6, 1947 in Stoneham. He was raised in Reading where he graduated from Reading High School. Following the tradition of his father and grandfather, Harvey began working at the Mt. Washington Cog Railway at age 16. He was a proud third generation railroad man, and worked as an Engineer for many years. Harvey was also a member of the National Guard Reserve. Harvey's pride and joy was his home. He found particular comfort in being outside in his well cared for garden, and planting or re-planting his favorite flower, day lilies. He spent hours outside pruning his flowering plants, and watering the hundreds of lilies that surrounded his home. He was also quite happy to climb aboard his riding mower, and trim the grass into perfect patterns. Harvey enjoyed just being in the sun whether on his back deck, or at the beach in Aruba. Harvey had a strong connection and appreciation for his job as an Engineer, and his devotion to the job led him to make several lasting friendships with coworkers. In their free time, they bonded over a burger at Brodie's Pub in Peabody or a lobster roll at Lobstaland in Gloucester. He also enjoyed day trips to Old Orchard Beach with his childhood friend, Jack. Harvey was the cherished son of Rachel H. Stillings of Murrells Inlet, SC, and the late Hugh W. Stillings. Dear brother of Nancy E. O'Connell and her late husband Charles of Melrose, and Robert L. Stillings and his wife Eleanor of MI. Also survived by several nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and longtime friends. Relatives and friends will gather in honor and remembrance of Harvey's life at the First Baptist Church, 561 Main St., Melrose where his Funeral Service will be celebrated on Friday, April 4 at 12:30PM. Gifts in Harvey's memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 300 5th Avenue, Ste. 6, Waltham, MA 02451.