Glenn Sullivan Gurley, Jr., 86, of Newport News, VA went peacefully home to his Lord and Savior on October 6, 2023.
Glenn was born to Glenn and Virginia (Armstrong) Gurley in Roanoke Rapids NC. He attended Fishburne Military School and graduated from Roanoke Rapids High School in 1955. He moved to Newport News and graduated with the Class of 1959 from the Newport News Shipyard Apprentice School. Glenn retired from Newport News Shipyard in 1999.
Glenn was a man of faith and a member of Temple Baptist Church since the early 1960’s where he served in many capacities. He had a passion for the water for himself and a dedication to teaching others to become strong swimmers and increasing their enjoyment as well. He taught swimming lessons with the Boy Scouts, at Hilton Pier and at Beaconsdale Pool. Many swimmers remember him as the starter and coach of the first swim team at Beaconsdale Pool and served on the board many times. He started swim meets for nearly 30 years.
Glenn had a love-hate (mostly love) relationship with the game of golf and played until just a few years ago. He proudly had 4 “hole in one” plaques on his golf wall. His long drives with the smoothest swing made many of his playing partners good natured envious! Glenn was a very good backyard vegetable gardener, and his family and friends enjoyed the spoils of his hard work. Glenn was a member and past president of the Warwick Lions Club. He enjoyed being in the annual variety show as “Hooter”, one of the “end men”. His sense of humor never left him.
Glenn was preceded in death by his father, Glenn S Gurley Sr; his mother, Virginia Gurley and his son, Brian Gurley. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 65 years, Earlene Smith Gurley; his daughters, Debbie Gurley and Kim Boyer (Mickey); his grandchildren, Ashley Stickl (Peter), David Boyer (Dawn), Daniel Boyer (Brittany), Steven Boyer (Andi), Glenn Boyer (Emilee), Doug Gurley (Brittany), Craig Gurley, Drew Gurley (MaryElizabeth) and 9 great- grandchildren.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Temple Baptist Church. A reception will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Temple Baptist Church or the Warwick Lions Club.
