June 4, 2022, 87, Goldsboro –

Julia Pearsall Gurley, 87, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, June 4, 2022. She was born in Wayne County to the late Bertie and Rosa Overman Pearsall on July 24, 1934. In addition to her parents, Julia was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Malcolm Z. Gurley and granddaughter, Heather Lancaster.

Family and faith were at the center of Julia’s life. She and her husband, Malcolm, reared their children to always give thanks to the Lord above.

The only thing that came before Julia’s family was her faith. A member of Woods Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, Julia and her husband, Malcolm, faithfully attended as long as their health allowed. If the doors of the church were open, Julia, Malcolm, and children were going to be in attendance. She was most fond of helping with the bereavement meals and was always quick to lend a hand in the events of the church.

Some of Julia’s favorite times were spent at family gatherings. Whether enjoying everyone around the table for a meal, especially for her chicken and pastry, or hosting a gathering of family and friends, Julia’s priority in life was to have all of her family together. Julia also enjoyed yard work and gardening, as was always reflected by her beautiful yard.

For many years, Julia worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Her career started at Wayne Memorial Hospital, followed by her transition to work for the state at both Cherry Hospital and O’Berry Center. After her time with the state, she moved to the private sector working with Dr. Pate until his retirement and finished out her career working with Dr. Price.

A graveside service to celebrate Julia’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Wayne Memorial Park with Pastor Barry Teague officiating. The family will greet friends following the service at the cemetery and other times at her home.

Julia is survived by her sons, Mike Gurley and wife, Pam of Goldsboro, Steve Gurley and wife, Patricia of Goldsboro; daughter, Dawn Smith and husband, Roger of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Jessi Carter (Bruce) of Goldsboro, Casey Vinson (Brandon), Rex Smith, Michael Smith (Clancy) and Brock Smith; and great-grandchildren, Ashley Lucas, Autumn Lancaster, Kennedy, Saylor, Eli, Emersyn and Boone Carter, Bristol Vinson, Ben Smith, Charlie Smith, Jack Nuckols and Ava Nuckols.

We would like to give a very special thank you to the wonderful staff at Community Home Care and Hospice for the love and care they provided for Julia during her final days. Simple words cannot express our gratitude. Also a thank you to the Christian Caregivers who cared for Julia over the past year.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Woods Grove PFWB Church at 4009 Central Heights Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.