May 24, 2023, 85, La Grange –

Gerald Gene Gurley, 85, passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family. Gerald was born in Wayne County on May 14, 1938, to the late Leamon F. and Lillian Gurley.

Gerald retired from the North Carolina Department of Corrections where he worked as an extradition officer. Following his retirement, he worked with Seymour, Rouse, Tyndall, and Kenly Funeral Homes. He was compassionate about helping families in their time of need. Because of his work with the prison system, he was able to relate to a variety of people. He always had a conversation with those he met.

Gerald enjoyed the outdoors and found peace and contentment while hunting or casting a line. It was the great outdoors that made him feel at home. He always had a story to tell about his adventures. And as much as he loved the outdoors, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. His wife, Annette, was his partner in this life. His son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were a light in his life. Annette and Gerald went through challenges that changed their entire lives with the death of their son, Michael. Gerald is now with his son once more.

Gerald was a longtime member of Bethel Fellowship Church in La Grange. He was dedicated to the Lord and sought to serve him with his life. Gerald’s faith helped to guide his steps in life.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Gerald’s life at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Joseph Franklin officiating. Entombment will follow at Wayne Memorial Park with Honors Rendered by the North Carolina Department of Corrections.

Gerald is survived by his wife of 65 years, Annette Hamm Gurley; daughter-in-law, Beth Sauls Gurley; grandson, Travis Gurley (Chelsey); granddaughter, Miranda Gurley (Ashley); great-grandchildren, Jake, Cheyenne, and Kolesyn; sister, Ann G. Browder; sister-in-law, Debbie Witherington (Linwood); brother-in-law, Richard Hamm; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his son, Michael Gerald Gurley; sister, Marnell Johnson; and brother, Franklin Gurley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Bethel Fellowship Church, La Grange.

Services have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

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