Harvey Ray Williams

Harvey Ray Williams, 79, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on May 28, 2026, following complications from osteomyelitis. Harvey was born on September 24, 1946, in Lawndale, North Carolina, to the late Apolia and Ray Williams. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carol Leonhardt of Falston, North Carolina.

Harvey spent much of his career in the furniture industry. He began by selling fabric to furniture manufacturers before moving into retail furniture sales. Eventually, he fulfilled his dream of business ownership by opening Harvey's Furniture Showcase in Hixson, Tennessee, followed by Furniture Liquidators Warehouse in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia. After a devastating flood in 2003, Harvey remained resilient. He worked as Vice President for Hoyt Heifel Associates, managing going-out-of-business sales across the region. He reopened Furniture Liquidators Warehouse in 2005 at a different location which he ran successfully until he retired. Harvey often shared with customers how God gave him the plan to rebuild and reopen his store, showing customers the yellow legal pad with plans that he felt had been given to him.

Harvey was an active member of Boynton United Methodist Church until suffering a stroke in April 2019. Throughout the years, he served his church in many capacities, including President of the United Methodist Men's Group and Finance Chair.

Harvey had a lifelong passion for classic muscle cars. He spent countless hours restoring and working on vehicles in the shop beside his home and enjoyed participating in car shows and the local car community. A devoted Mopar enthusiast, one of his greatest treasures was his fully restored 1973 Plymouth Duster. In his younger years, he was also active in the drag racing community throughout North Carolina.

Harvey is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Amy Craig Williams; his children, Brent Williams and Lindsay Roden (Chad); his stepchildren, Robb Smedema (Caitlin), Hank Smedema, and Elizabeth Smedema Macon (Kenny); and his beloved grandchildren, Tyler Roden, Landon Roden, Tripp Smedema, Sarah Smedema, and Dax Macon.

Harvey will be remembered for his strong moral compass, entrepreneurial spirit, love of family, and the friendships he built throughout his life. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for June 4 at BUMC at 4246 Boynton Drive, Ringgold with visitation in the sanctuary from 4:00 to 6:30 and the service following. A light supper will be served in the Fellowship Hall after the service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Boynton United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.