Mary Harvard

Mary Margaret Harvard (Cross), 74, of Davenport, IA, passed away Friday, July 5, 2024 at Bettendorf Health Care Center. Per her wishes cremation rites will be accorded. Services are Thursday, July 11, 2024, 1:00 pm at Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial @ Wendt Funeral Home, 1811 15th Street Place, Moline, IL.

Mary Margaret Harvard (Cross) was born February 14, 1950, in Rock Island, IL. to Mamie L. and Elmer Cross. Mary was lovingly called Bootsie by her family and most friends. At the age of 6 years old, Mary’s mother passed away and she was raised by her Grandmother, Mrs. Flora B. Burris (Quick).

Mary knew no strangers and welcomed many into her home where they could enjoy hot meals and even stay if needed. She was very artistic and could draw anything and enjoyed using chalks the most. Mary worked in a variety of different settings, but working in the restaurant setting was her favorite. She enjoyed working as a Chef at the Hyperion Country Club in the suburbs of Des Moines, IA. She did other things, very well, such as doing hair and she worked at many places in the Quad Cities including Seaford’s Clothing Co., Fresh Pak Candy Co., and The Mark of the Quad Cities.

She was a free-spirit in her younger years and made her own path and way in life. She was a huge people person and everywhere she went people loved her, making friends all over. She had no limits as to what she could do when she put her mind to it. She was one of the most selfless and generous people you could ever meet. She enjoyed traveling and gambling (a lot).

She built a special bond with all her Aunts, Uncles, and cousins, but especially her Aunt Dixie, Uncle Skeets, and cousin Mary Quick.

Mary attended Rock Island Schools and was accepted at an Art School which she declined. At an early age, she accepted the Lord and was a member of Olivet Missionary Baptist Church in Rock Island, IL.

She is survived by Randy Wells; children Kevin Cross, Toiane Patton, Felicia Cross, Corey Harvard, Jason Williams; a special cousin Dena R. Williams-Newby (who was like the little sister she never had); 24 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.

She was preceded in death by both parents, grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Daughter Margo Harvard and Sons Michael Cross and Eric Harvard, who she has been reunited with at last.

Condolences may be expressed at mvcremation.com