Harvey Lester Breeden

Harvey Lester Breeden, 87, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanne Marie Despeaux Breeden, who died in 2006.

Born April 8, 1937, in Stanley, Virginia, Harvey was the son of the late Raymond Trenton Breeden and Mary Ellen Welsh Breeden. He is preceded in death by his stepfather, Howard W. White; grandson Allen; and siblings Alma Morrison, Ruth Offutt, Dorothy Eyler, and Howard White, Jr. He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Jean Breeden Llewellyn; granddaughter, Molly Ivy Breeden; sister, Naomi Zimmerman; brothers, Robert White and Richard White; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Harvey proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962 as a member of the 101st Airborne Division stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He married Jeanne in 1965. Following his military service, he worked at Knott & Geisbert Machinery for five years before dedicating 30 years to the National Bureau of Standards.

A devoted member of Frederick Church of the Brethren (FCOB) since 1956, Harvey served as head usher from 1962 to 1977. His passion for helping others extended beyond the church walls; he was well-known for being a skilled auto mechanic and often assisted friends and neighbors in his home garage. His dedication to service led him to establish FCOB’s ACTS Auto Ministry, which he directed for 16 years. Through this ministry, he provided free maintenance and repairs to those facing financial hardships, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Harvey’s kindness and generosity touched many lives. His family remembers him for his unwavering optimism and sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 6, at 11 a.m. at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 9501 Catoctin Mountain Highway, Frederick, MD. Following the service, a luncheon will be held at Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Avenue, Frederick. All are invited to attend the service and luncheon to honor and remember Harvey.

Memorial contributions may be made to Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Avenue, Frederick, MD, 21701.