November 3, 1951 – July 15, 2024
KILL DEVIL HILLS — Philip Scott Harvey passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 15, 2024. Philip was born in Greenville, NC on November 3, 1951, to George Philip and Mary Scott Harvey. He is survived by his wife Susan, their daughter Virginia “Ginger” Rountree and husband John, and their son Philip Scott Harvey Jr. and wife Tierney. He also leaves behind two adored grandchildren, John Arthur and Julia Scott “Scottie” Rountree, and brother George Harvey and wife Ann.
A beloved husband, father, and local business owner, Philip will be remembered for an unwavering dedication to his family, his hard work and integrity, and a lifelong love of antiques, decoys, and fishing.
Philip and Susan met in college and settled in the country outside of Edenton, where they restored a 200-year-old farmhouse and brought up their children. An avid antiques collector and dealer, Philip became known for his expertise in country antiques, folk art, and North Carolina decoys.
Philip, alongside his wife Susan, founded The Bird Store, which they have owned and operated on the Outer Banks for 39 years. His passion for decoys and deep knowledge of the area and its carvers fostered dedicated customers who came in year after year to hear his stories (and jokes). He co-authored the book Shorebird Decoys of North Carolina, featuring his private collection and showcasing his knack for decoy identification.
Residing in Kill Devil Hills for the last 25 years, Philip loved to fish whether it be with his long-time fishing team or sitting on the dock with his family. His children have fond memories of chasing the bluefish blitz up and down the beach, and he taught his grandson to cast his first fishing rod. Philip was known for his easy-going, lighthearted personality. His life was a testament to honesty, love of family, and his incredible marriage to Susan, who he raised a family with, worked alongside, and shared his many interests. He passed away just five days shy of their 50th wedding anniversary.
A memorial service will be held to honor Philip’s life and legacy at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, Nags Head. Visitation with the family will precede the service at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea (https://abundant.co/saintandrewsobx/give), The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke (https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/ways-give-0), or a charity of your choice.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
