Isabelle Simpson Harvey, a retired registered nurse, passed away peacefully at her home in Denver on July 20, 2026, at the age of 102. Isabelle was born in Greenwich, Connecticut, in 1923. She was the youngest of four children born to Edward Simpson and Isabelle Mackenzie Simpson, both of Scottish descent. Isabelle was preceded in death by her siblings: Helen Stevenson, Marjorie Lindgren, and Angus G. Simpson. She often fondly recalled memories of growing up with her niece, Joan M. Stevenson.

Isabelle married Wells F. Harvey Jr., M.D., in 1947. Shortly afterward, they moved to post-World War II Munich, Germany, where they lived for two years. This was followed by a brief stay in Philadelphia, where they started a family. Their final move was to Denver in 1952, where the family grew with the addition of two more children. Isabelle is survived by her daughter, Karen L. Harvey, MSN (born 1952); her son-in-law, Marquis P. Vawter, Ph.D.; and two sons, Scott D. Harvey, Ph.D. (born 1955) and Wells F. Harvey III, Ph.D. (born 1957).

Isabelle always valued education and returned to school in midlife to earn her Associate of Applied Science degree from Arapahoe Community College. She was especially proud of obtaining her registered nurse license. She applied her degree by teaching an American Red Cross Preparation for Parenthood class for 8½ years and also volunteered to perform community blood pressure screenings.

Isabelle was a loving wife and a fiercely dedicated mother. Her passion for education was passed on to her children, all of whom went on to earn advanced degrees in nursing or science. She loved music (especially opera), was an accomplished pianist and singer, and was an avid reader. Her adult children recall learning strong ethics from her example. Although family was her primary focus, Isabelle also had a deep compassion for animals, particularly her beloved poodles. In her later years, she enjoyed visiting Cherry Creek State Park to watch wildlife and observe recreational sports.

Isabelle will be interred at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, alongside her husband. 

Her family would appreciate any comments or remembrances left in the Guestbook Section below, as these shared memories will be deeply cherished.