James Charles Gurley, Sr.

   With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Charles Gurley, Sr., 83, of Durham, NC. He was peacefully called home to be with his Savior on July 7, 2026. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, husband, and friend. His loving nature, good humor, and servant’s heart will be deeply missed. His quiet strength and deep trust in God brought comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

   James was born to Charles Pete Gurley and Annie Louise “Pat” Davis Tilley on June 4, 1943. He attended Northern High School in Durham where he made lifelong friends, many of whom he met on a regular basis for weekly breakfast or monthly lunch. James proudly served in our United States Marine Corps as an Air Traffic Controller in Vietnam, and kept in touch with many of his servicemen over the years. The discipline, leadership, and patriotism he learned there helped define the man he was. Once a Marine, always a Marine.

   Upon returning home, he attended North Carolina State University and graduated with an engineering degree. He supported the university and had season tickets to basketball games so he could cheer on the Wolfpack. James worked for Hackney Brothers in Wilson, NC for several years and was active in the Kiwanis Club. Upon moving to Raleigh, he opened his own business, Gurley Masonry and later Concept Masonry, where he worked side-by-side with his sons every day.

   Throughout his life, James was a man of faith with an unwavering commitment to his family, friends, employees, and his community. He was a devoted follower of Christ, and his life exemplified the fruits of the Spirit. James knew that he had been blessed throughout his life and found fulfillment in giving someone a hand-up, even if not asked. He was a Deacon at Olive Branch Baptist Church and a member of Grey Stone Baptist Church and Allensville United Methodist Church.

   “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)

   He was fortunate to have many loves in his life before finding Sherry whom he married in 2003. Along with spoiling his and Sherry’s grandchildren, James enjoyed playing cribbage with his family, socializing with his friends, and golfing. He especially loved his dog, Charlie, who brought him much love, comfort and exercise later in life.

   James leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion. He is survived by his wife Sherry Gurley, his brother, Marshall Lyle Gurley, Sr., son James (Jimmy) Gurley, Jr., son Michael Gurley and wife Tracey, daughter Heather Gaster and husband Preston, grandson Justin Gaster, granddaughter Madison Radford and husband Mitch, granddaughter Natalie Gaster, and nephew Lyle Gurley, Jr. and family, along with his bonus children Candice Mercer Roberts, Wendy Mercer, Sarah Ponzi and family, Jeff Lampson and family, and Tommy Lampson and family.

   James’ mother believed happiness is a choice. While we grieve this end of James’ physical life on Earth, we find solace knowing that this is the beginning of his eternal and beautiful journey with our Lord. The family encourages you to join them in choosing to be happy.

   “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8)

   The family appreciates flowers, and memorials are preferred to Military Missions in Action, Durham Rescue Mission, and Hospice.