Robbie Harvey
Robbie Harvey was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana. He has a younger sister and remembers walking to school during the elementary years, riding bikes in the neighborhood, and having friends from all walks of life. Robbie loved music and began playing the guitar after taking lessons for one semester in high school, an instrument he still plays today. He graduated from Woodlawn High School, Home of the Knights, in 1990. One of his favorite childhood memories is when he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at the age of eight.
Robbie had a rocky relationship with his father at times. He says, “He was a good man who introduced me to music and his love of sports. He also taught me to be a shade tree mechanic. His biggest influence on me was his strange sense of humor and love of all people. He was tough on me. He wanted better for me than he had. He showed me how to handle tough times and heartaches. Unfortunately, he passed in February 2022 and I miss him daily.”
Robbie met his wife, Laura, whom he lovingly refers to as his “Isah” (Hebrew for wife), and the two have been married for seven years now. “We met when I was selling cell phones at Century Tel. We became friends and, at one point, coworkers. We have been married since 2017, when Hurricane Harvey hit South Texas. Some would say it was a sign of things to come,” Robbie says.
Today, the couple has a blended family including seven children: Jaren Harvey (27), Micayla Harvey (25), Clara Harvey (22), Ryan Harvey (19), Erica Estrada (29), married to Troy (30), Kelly Cogan (26), and Joseph Cogan (23). The couple also delights in their first granddaughter, Brinley Estrada, who is three years old. “We love having our house full! We enjoy family time when we can all be together!” Robbie says.
Robbie was 25 years old when his firstborn, Jaren, made his appearance. “He weighed nine pounds and six ounces. He was unexpected but wanted. I was overjoyed, nervous, and anxious. I did not have a clue what I had gotten myself into. I don’t think having a baby is ever what you expect it to be,” Robbie says. “Being a father is the most important thing you do in life. Take it seriously and be present for them. Take time off work to attend school programs or any activity they are involved in. Take time to just spend the day with them. Most importantly, make sure you allow the Heavenly Father to guide and lead you in all decisions concerning your children, including disciplining them.”
Robbie has excellent advice for younger fathers. “Enjoy the small things with your children individually and together. Teach them your hobbies. Embrace them when they run to you with open arms after a long day at work, because one day they will not run to you. Cherish moments when they want to hang out with you. Always make yourself present for them. Pray for them, teach them about Jesus, and take them to church,” Robbie says.