Harvey James Newsom, age 94, went home to be with the Lord on April 7, 2023.

Harvey James Newsom, affectionately known as “Kane” to his family and friends, was born on December 18, 1928, in DeValls Bluff, Arkansas. His parents, the late L. D. Newsom and Elnora Newsom had six children:  Harvey, Mae (deceased), Izola, Carl (deceased), Joyce and Billy.

Harvey attended Biscoe High School, graduating in 1946. Harvey joined the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged and relocated to Cleveland, Ohio.   Harvey was a dedicated worker for the Yellow Taxi Cab Company, and also Republic Steel.

Harvey J. Newsom and the late Samella Robinson Newsom were united in Holy Matrimony on January 29, 1954. To this blessed union, four children were born: Dwight, Dwane, Tammy and Darrell. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, and granddad. Harvey was one who always put the interest of his family first. He saw to it that his children were given the best he could provide: loving care and spiritual nourishment.

In 1971, Harvey and Alvin Robinson (deceased) his brother-in-law, founded a business, H.J. Newsom Company, a cement contracting company in order to take an active part in both the construction and renovation of our city. The beginning was difficult but they set about building a solid foundation for their business.  They grew the business by continuing to supply top-quality concrete and prompt service.

In 1972 due to the growth of their business, they expanded their company, buying several concrete mixers, and establishing the new company name, United Ready Mix, Inc.   In 1984, United Ready Mix, Inc. joined forces with the J.T. Osborne Co. This allowed their business to be recognized with larger companies and enabled them to bid, and secure larger contracts.  After several years, the company continued to joint-venture on several projects throughout the years. In 1985, the City of Cleveland awarded the company the designation of Minority Business of the Year.  In 1986 United Ready Mix was cited by the U.S. Department of Commerce as Supplier of the Year for the Great Lakes Region.  United Ready Mix’s large concrete plant enabled the company to service many public projects; such as Key Bank Tower, Progressive Field, Gund Arena, Cleveland Browns Stadium, and runways at Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

Harvey joined and worshiped at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church under the late Dr. R. L. Fuller and Elder Oliver D. Bouie. He was a faithful member serving on the Hospitality Committee. Later he joined Olivet Institutional Baptist under the pastorate of Dr. Jawanza K. Colvin. He was a loyal and faithful soldier until God called him home.

Anyone who knew Harvey, knew that he loved to spend his leisure time helping with the family childcare business. Harvey, while competing in various bowling tournaments, met and made long lasting friends along the way.

Harvey impacted a countless number of people throughout his life. Harvey’s warm smile and personality will be remembered by all.

On Friday, April 7, 2023, God called Harvey home. Recognizing his death but joyfully celebrating his legacy as a loving, devoted father and grandfather are his beloved children: Dwight (Linda), Dwane (Candace), Tammy (Allen), and Darrell (Kelli); grandchildren Phillip, Iman, D’Nair, Justin, Darrell Jr. and Quincy; siblings: Izola Brown, Joyce Thompson (John), and Billy Newsom (Diane); brothers-in-law: Robert Robinson (Pamela), Darnell (Deborah); sisters-in-law: Marilyn Nash, Dorothy Williams (Jimmy), Loretta Warren (Ellis), Kathy Robinson; goddaughter Joanne Qunnie and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of “very, very best friends”!