Community Pioneer | Library Founder | Trailblazer

Born in Mount Enterprise, Texas, and raised in both Mount Enterprise and Cushing, TX, Mrs. Jerline M. Harvey has long been a pillar of community empowerment, education, and civic leadership. A graduate of C.L. Simon High School in Cushing, she excelled both academically and athletically, notably in basketball.

Mrs. Harvey began her collegiate journey at Texas Southern University. She later completed her studies at the University of Texas at Arlington, earning her certification as a State-Certified Vocational Counselor through the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. Her pursuit of education continued with specialized training at the School of Community Service in Denton, the University of Texas Health Science Center of Dallas, and the A. Webb Roberts Center for Continuing Education in Health Sciences, with focuses on psychology, rehabilitation counseling, and the social aspects of disabilities.

🏡 A Legacy in Forest Hill

A Forest Hill resident since 1975, Mrs. Harvey devoted herself to civic life in countless ways. She served as Crime Watch Director, organized community safety events, and in 1986 was named Citizen of the Year. Her dedication earned her further recognition for Outstanding Community Service in 1988. In 1989, she made history as the first African American woman elected to the Forest Hill City Council, a position she held until 1991.

📚 Founding the Forest Hill Public Library

Mrs. Harvey’s most enduring legacy began in 1988, when she founded and organized the first public library in Forest Hill, serving as both librarian and Board of Trustees member. Although this early library closed in 1994 due to city funding cuts, her resolve never wavered.

Her efforts contributed to the passing of Senate Bill 1674 in 1997, co-authored by State Senator Glenn O. Lewis and Representative Terry Kell, allowing underserved communities to form library districts. On January 15, 2000, Forest Hill citizens voted to create a library district—an election passed by just 14 votes, thanks to a strong "Get Out the Vote" campaign spearheaded by Mrs. Harvey and fellow advocates.

Elected to the Forest Hill Library District Board of Trustees in 2002, Mrs. Harvey served until May 2016, leading initiatives that resulted in the purchase of 5.28 acres of land and the opening of the new Forest Hill Public Library on June 20, 2008.

🌿 Visionary Leadership & Community Service

In 2011, she founded the Forest Hill Community Garden, envisioning the future development of a walking trail, playground, and museum on library grounds to benefit future generations. In March 2016, in recognition of her extraordinary service, the Library Board voted unanimously to name the facility The Jerline M. Harvey Public Library.

Her professional career included roles with Fort Worth ISD, United Community Centers, the City of Fort Worth, and the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. From 1996 to 2004, she served as Community Affairs Manager for Texas House District 95 under State Representative Glenn O. Lewis. She also contributed to the Forest Hill Chamber of Commerce as a Director.

Mrs. Harvey’s heart for service extended beyond civic duties. She operated a Food Bank for 15 years and was Community Outreach Coordinator for Love Sanctuary Church of God in Christ. She is also the author of “The Pathway of Spiritual Living.”

💫 An Enduring Impact

Mrs. Jerline M. Harvey’s life is a testament to vision, perseverance, and service. From breaking barriers in local government to founding institutions that educate and uplift, her legacy continues to inspire the Forest Hill community and beyond.