Harry Lewis Lavine, Sr.

Harry Lewis Lavine, Sr., a lifelong resident of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at home on June 14, 2025, at the age of 87. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, public servant, and strawberry farmer, Harry lived a life rooted deeply in community, faith, and hard work.

Born on January 27, 1938, to John Morris Lavine and Edna Parker Lavine, Harry grew up surrounded by the values that would define his life: humility, service, and an unwavering dedication to his family and hometown. He joined the United States Air Force alongside a group of his friends and fellow graduates, proudly serving four years before earning his bachelor’s degree from Southeastern Louisiana University.

Harry’s professional life was marked by a strong commitment to public service and integrity. He worked five years in banking and twelve years in government accounting. He later served his community with distinction as a Tangipahoa Parish Police Juror for four years and as a Tangipahoa Parish Councilman for eight years.

Even with his many professional achievements, Harry’s true passion remained in the soil of his hometown - as a lifelong strawberry farmer, he cherished the land and the traditions of Ponchatoula’s agricultural heritage.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, John Willie Lavine (Eleanor) and Ewing Ray Lavine (Carlene); and his niece, Rhonda Kay Lavine.

Harry is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Frances Fanning Lavine; his oldest son, Harry Lavine, Jr. (Lena), and his youngest son, John Lavine; and his cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Hunter, Justyce, and Parker. He is also survived by a multitude of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews who will remember him with love and respect.

Many thanks are extended to close friends May Stilley and Landry Grice, who have been a constant source of support, and to Tyrone Parker, who lovingly served as his caregiver during his final years.

A man of quiet wisdom and unwavering integrity, Harry will be remembered for his deep commitment to his family, his tireless service to his community, and the joy he found in life’s simple, meaningful labors.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Visitation at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454, on Thursday, June 19, 2025 at 9:00 am until services begin at 12:30 pm.

Interment will follow in Sand Hill Cemetery, Ponchatoula, Louisiana.