Clidia Rebecca Burnette Harvey Lewis, 78, of New River, VA, peacefully passed away Sept. 16, 2025, with her daughter by her side after a brave battle with metastatic bladder cancer. She fought valiantly for her life, demonstrating the same spirit that marked her entry into this world.
Born Feb. 16, 1947, Clidia was the daughter of Staples and Sarah G. Harvey. Her life was characterized by resilience, generosity, and a deep devotion to her family, church and community. Clidia was a proud mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, facing life’s challenges with unwavering faith, strength, and tenacity.
An active member of First Missionary Baptist Church, Clidia served as a deaconess, missionary and choir member, holding various leadership roles throughout her life. She was also heavily involved with the Valley Baptist Association, advocating for foreign missions, Christian education, evangelism and social justice.
Clidia dedicated much of her life to caring for others, both professionally and personally. She graduated from Christiansburg Institute, earned an A.A.S. degree in Accounting from New River Community College and a B.S. in Organizational Management from Radford University. After spending 35 years in management, including overseeing a business, she transitioned to a career as a CNA, where she found joy in engaging with people. Before retiring, she worked at Heritage House in Blacksburg.
A breast cancer survivor, Clidia faced her later diagnosis of bladder cancer with remarkable bravery. She underwent multiple surgeries and treatments with determination, always prioritizing meaningful time with her family and striving for independence. Even in her illness, she inspired those around her with her dignity and strength.
Clidia leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and faith. She is survived by her daughter, Carla Harvey of Charlotte, N.C.; her cherished grandchildren, Jada Lambert (Ellis) of Denver, N.C., and Jasper Short III of Reston, Va.; her brothers, Jerry Harvey (Minnie) of Columbus, Ohio and Dexter Harvey (Janie) of Kingsport, Tenn.; her sisters, Ora Crouse of New River, Va., Emily [Alice] Kellum (Cornell) of Charlotte, N.C., Valera Bush (Clark) of Columbus, Ohio, Valentina Brooks (Bill) of Kingsport, Tenn., along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
Clidia was preceded in death by her parents, Staples and Sarah G. Harvey; her brothers, Estell, Harrison, Jackson, Frank and infant Arwood Harvey; and her sisters, Annie [Lalar] Ingram and infant Fanny Harvey.
A celebration of her life will take place Saturday, Sept. 27, at First Missionary Baptist Church in New River, Va., with visitation starting at 11:30 a.m. and the service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens in Dublin. The family invites all who knew and loved Clidia to join them in honoring her life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Christiansburg Institute Alumni Association, Inc. (CIAA, Inc.), PO Box 433, Christiansburg, VA 24068, Tax ID 54-1229659.
The family is in the care of the Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
