Gary Thomas Gurley

Gary Thomas Gurley, age 71, departed this life for his heavenly home in the late evening hours of  October 27, 2025 at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 23, 1954, in Wayne County to the late Addie Lee Gurley and Sarah Blanche Best Gurley.

Gary was a dedicated employee of the Wayne County Public School System. He was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his job. Additionally, Gary was a former member of the Mar-Mac Volunteer Fire Department  in his younger years where he served as a firefighter, in his beloved community.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie Herring Gurley; his son, David Gurley, and wife Nidia of LaGrange; his son, Michael Gurley, and wife Shannon of  Dudley; Stepdaughter, Shannon Collings of Goldsboro; stepson, Devin Herring, and wife Kisha of Goldsboro.  Gary was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Sarah Gurley, Samantha Gurley, Mackenzie Soto, Joshua Kelly and wife Megan, Katelyn Kelly, Isaiah Herring, and Isaac Herring.

A service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 1:30 PM at the Wayne Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel, with Reverend Dave Fishman officiating. The family will greet friends one hour before the service at the mausoleum chapel.  Other times they will be at the home.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the Gurley family and online condolences can be directed to www.shumate-faulk.com

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