Fred Gurley

Fred Gurley passed away on January 1st, 2020 in Brockton, Massachusetts.

He was born on Jan 3,1927 in Huntsville Alabama to the late Arthur and Georgia Gurley. He is preceded in death by 7 siblings: Arthur Gurley Junior, Leonard Gurley, Clinton Gurley, Marvin Gurley, Georgia Gurley and Cletus Gurley; 2 Sons: Fred Gurley Junior and Shane Gurley; and 1 Grandson: Jose Gurley. 

He is survived by 6 siblings: Edna Gibbs, Pearline Foreman, Peggy Gurley Cooper, Robert Gurley, George Gurley (wife Sherill) and Curtis Gurley (wife Julie); his wife Donna Gurley of 43 years; 11 Children: Jean Hilliard, Pauline Pyrtle, Catherine Gurley, Maria Bailey, Priscilla Djebbour, Constance Banks, Karen Gurley, Shelley Gurley, Elijah Gurley, Donna Gurley and Sharon Corona; 31 Grandchildren; 27 Great Grandchildren; 7 Great Great Grandchildren and a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends. 

Fred’s strong work ethic and love for family was instilled by his parents at an early age. Over the years his determination and discipline aided his success in the business he owned and passed onto his Sons, “Fred Gurley and Sons Blacktop and Paving”. He employed and taught many people the skills of asphalt and paving; many of whom started businesses of their own.

Fred’s strong desire to be connected to his Heavenly Father led him on a search for truth and he found that truth when he began to study with Jehovah’s Witnesses. He was baptized on December 28th 1974 and lived the remainder of his life dedicated to Jehovah. He loved God’s word, and his routine included reading the Bible daily and sharing what he learned with others. 

In 1976 he met and married the love of his life Donna and together they raised their 4 children. He loved to be surrounded by his friends and family and often shared stories with his Grandchildren about his upbringing. He loved to tell jokes and make them laugh. 

Fred loved his physical and spiritual family alike and was known for his large barbecues where all were welcome. He loved to cook - especially seafood and soul food! He had a green thumb and took great pride in his garden, sharing his flowers and vegetables with everyone who stopped by to visit.

His big heart helped him have empathy for others and he shared his life experiences with everyone in hopes that they could learn from his successes and failures. Fred would want us all to find comfort and strength in God’s promise that we will see him again, in a new world with all his youth and vigor restored. (Rev. 21:3,4).

A Memorial Services will be held on Saturday January 11 at 2:00PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 444 Plain St Brockton MA, 02302. 

Following the services a reception will be held at the Knights of Columbus at 254 Hancock Street in Abington MA, 02351.

Funeral Services entrusted to George Lopes Funeral Home -Brockton 647 Main St Brockton MA 02301

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