Haywood Thompson Harvey

Haywood Thompson Harvey, 85, of Brighton, MA died Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Mount Auburn Hospital following an extended illness. He is survived by his husband Jason Cogswell of Brighton, MA.

Haywood spent his formative years in Virginia before joining the military and serving in the Korean War. After the war, he spent time in California working as an advocate for gay rights. He returned to the East Coast and began volunteering with the New England Center for Homeless Veterans. He also graduated from University of Massachusetts-Boston in 2000 and attended Harvard Divinity School. He was savvy in helping others understand how systems and institutions work especially in helping marginalized people thrive in these environments. He was passionate about many things, including education, politics, faith, and movies!

In his retirement, he devoted his time to loving his partner, pets, plants, and writing screenplays. He had a heart of gold, and his generosity was limitless. His rolodex was packed with influential names and personal relationships he maintained over the years. His legacy lives on through his lifelong friendships, his relentless advocacy for the LGBT and Black community, and the compassion he shared with so many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving in Haywood’s name to Fenway Community Health (or checks made payable to Fenway Health Development Department, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215) or Boston Children’s Hospital Trust (checks made payable to Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, 401 Park Drive Suite 602, Boston, MA 03325-5301.

There will be no memorial so please share your favorite Haywood memories on the Tribute Wall.

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