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Walter Gurley Obituary
He was born Aug. 12, 1942, in Newport News, Va., the only son of the late Robert Gurley and Carrie Gurley.
He graduated from Huntington High School and Winston Salem University with honors. He received his masters degree in education administration from Hampton University and is listed in the Who's Who of America. He was also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi.
He was employed as a teacher at C. Vernon Spratley Middle School until his retirement July 1, 2008. He had 43 years of service with Hampton City Schools and was dedicated to his students.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jessica Hope Gurley; two daughters, Stephanie Chandler (Frank III), Linda Gurley of Hampton; and three grandchildren.
Viewing will be held noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th St., Newport News, VA 23607. A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Wesley Grove Church, 2308 Roanoke Ave., Newport News, Va. Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cookebros.com.
The final care of our loved one has been entrusted to Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Gurley
Charlene Miott-Jones
August 26, 2008
I have always recalled my days at Thomas Eaton as great and Mr. Gurley was part of that. He was dedicated to the students and could always discipline w/ care.
To the Gurley family, you are in my prayers and may God comfort you at this time.
God Bless
Charlene Miott-Jones
Constance Mack
August 22, 2008
I will always have fond memories of Mr. Gurley. I remember Mr. Gurley from Eaton during the early '70s.
He was a remarkable person with a tremendous amount of presence and positive energy. He had a kind and gentle heart.
Mr. Gurley was humorous but always willing to offer advice. He took time to know his students and was extremely personable. He was quite a role model.
To the Gurley family, God knows what is best as His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. Peace Be With You Always...
Connie Mack
Linda D. Gurley
August 18, 2008
To the Gurley Family:
May You Find Comfort in Knowing that the Lord never makes any mistakes. He had a need to have "Butch" come home. His work was done on earth. I will always remember him as being willing to help, having a kind and thoughtful demeanor. A very private and intuitive individual. He was very proud of his children.In time the hurt will go away. Stephanie and Linda continue to be strong and trust in the Lord and believe that everything will be alright. I love you all. Linda D. Gurley
Connie Robinson
August 18, 2008
Dear Jessica and family
James and I were shocked and sadden to learn of the lost of your loved one. We were out of the country when we heard of Butch' s untimely death and sorry we were unable to be with you at this time.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
May God continue to keep you in His care.
Sincerely,
James and Connie(Burnette) Robinson
shantavia simmons
August 17, 2008
im gonna really miss mr.gurley he was my science
teacher for 2 month i got switched 2007
shantavia simmons
Reginald Wynn
August 15, 2008
To the Gurley Family,
You have my deepest sympathy in your lost of an exceptional man. Mr. Gurley was a signficant positive force in my life during high school. He had a way of sensing just when to assist and when to insist in order to bring out the best in all students. He was my mentor and confidant who inspired me to never say "I can't" in difficult classes. My prays are with you all. Reginald Wynn and family.
Tammy Falls
August 15, 2008
Gurley Family: We are so very sorry for your loss.
Mr. Gurley was my husband's, Travis, and my brother-in-law's, Trevor, favorite teacher. My father-in-law, Bill, also sends his regrets. Mr. Gurley was a wonderful man and role model and our thoughts are with your family in this difficult time. God Bless. Tammy Falls and family
John Mayo
August 15, 2008
To The Gurley Family:
I remember Walter from high school as always being very kind, friendley and fun to be around.
My granddaughter remember him as her favorite teacher at Spratley.
He will be greatly missed. With our heartfelt of sympathly,
John Mayo & Family
August 15, 2008
Mr. Gurley was one of the greatest educators that I ever had the experiance of having. Thank you for all the life lessons! You will be greatly missed. Your family will be in my prayers. Cristina Mazzuca- Gonzalez (1988)
Sharmaneci Long
August 15, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Gurley's passing. He was my 6th grade teacher in 1988 at Spratley. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and his reality checks.
Alton E. Croslin, Jr. "Shakey"
August 14, 2008
Mrs. Gurley and family,
It has been years since our paths have crossed and for this reason which they now meet is heartbreaking. I remember "Butch" during my early years of growing up next door to his parents on Victoria Blvd. My mother, sister and I are so grateful for the Gurley's in those years as neighbors. I remember him as a "center of influence", compassionate and kind to all who crossed his path. May Jesus be a fence around you during this season of mourning.
August 14, 2008
So sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. Gurley, My prayers are with you. He was a wonderful man, who inspired me threw life. Words can't express how he changed many students lives. My prayers are with your family to give them strength and peace.
Sincerley
Shaunta Tucker
One of his students in 1992
Monisha Baker
August 14, 2008
To the family of Mr. Gurley: Words can't express my respect for Mr. Gurley. He was an awesome teacher who taught us not only from the books but also about life. I'll never forget how each week he portrayed life's obstacles with a monologue he called "Jack's dilemma." His storytelling ability was riveting. I strongly believe he saw my "teacher potential" while I was a 6th grade student of his at Asbury Elementary. On several occasions he allowed a few students who showed interest to lead a spelling lesson or a math lesson- standing up in front of the class-. I was one of those students who was responsible for reviewing spelling words and definitions. We also had mock court cases and he allowed students to study and know the roles of the law in our society. I was one of the students who had to portray the role of a lawyer. I believe these role-playing activities helped build our self-confidence as students. He urged us to get involved in school clubs and activities as well. He was a remarkable teacher and person; he spoke fondly of his family and his parents. As a teacher myself, now I see why he cared so much. I pray God strengthens his family during this time. Respectfully, Monisha R. Baker
Nina Christian
August 14, 2008
So sad to hear of Walter's passing. We were classmates at Winston Salem State University and graduated together in 1964.
Lowery Parker, Jr.
August 14, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you during your period of bereavement. Our beloved Walter “Butch” Gurley has made his transition. He proudly lives within each of us.
As a friend and a colleague, Mr. Gurley and I shared many constructive and memorable experiences during my ten years at Spratley Middle School. His special love for each student transcended every challenge. We worked together on many educational projects. Mr. Gurley and I bonded together as colleagues and as brothers. He met each task with the words, “We can do it!”
All of us miss Mr. Gurley, but in our hearts, we shall always be together.
Lowery Parker, Jr.
Cozette Burnette
August 14, 2008
Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please except our deepest sympathy. May the Peace of God be forever with you.
Love Always, Cozette and Family
August 14, 2008
"FOREVER."
Patricia Jolly
August 14, 2008
To the Gurley Family,
May God bless you and keep you in your time of sorrow. My prayers are with you.
Beverly James
August 14, 2008
My condolences to the Gurley family. Weeping may endure for a night but, JOY comes in the morning!!!! God bless you.
Beverly James, Hampton, Virginia
Mary Reed
August 14, 2008
To the Gurley Family:
I was a fairly new Substitute Teacher when I substituted one day at Spratley Middle School. It was there where I had the oppportunity to meet Mr. Gurley. He gave me so much assistance and encouragement that I am forever grateful. He was indeed a very kind and generous human being. Remember, he will always be in your hearts. God Bless You.
Mary Reed
Keisha Samuels
August 13, 2008
To the Gurley Family,
My heart is filled with love for for this remarkable man and leader. I have known Mr. Gurley my entire life as my neighborhood, deacon at my church, and later in life as a colleague at Spratley. Mr Gurley was always encouraging and proactive about making a difference in someone's life. I am greatful to have known him and learned from him.
I pray that you will embrace the memories and celebrate the spirit of this wonderful man. God Bless you.
Keisha M. Samuels & Family
Elton Morgan
August 13, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Robin Hunt
August 13, 2008
Mr. Gurley will be missed at Spratley. He always encouraged me to keep moving forward with my career goals. I will truly miss his jokes about Lynchburg, VA (my hometown) that he used to share with me each morning at work.
Lelia (Gilbert) Haynes
August 13, 2008
To The Gurley Family,
We offer our condolences and prayers of comfort to you on the homegoing of your husband, father, and grandfather. Having known all you for many years and having worked with Jessica side by side, it grieves me as I feel your loss. May God give you strength in the days ahead.
Jasmine Ryan
August 13, 2008
Mr. Gurley was an awsome and caring person. I enjoyed spending time in his class even though i was not a student of his. When ever I was having a bad day, he would let me come and sit in his class to get my thoughts together and cool off. He always made me laugh and I will never foget him.
Cynthia Arrington-thomas
August 13, 2008
Mr. Gurley, my thoughts and prayers are with your family. You will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know you and experience your smile and friendship. Our lost is heaven's gain. Hampton, Virginia will never shine as bright.
August 13, 2008
My deepest condolences are extended to the Gurley family. May you find comfort in your faith and the care and concern of family and friends.
Patricia Moore Rodgers
Chevy Chase, Maryland
Raymond Washington
August 13, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God grant you peace in the midst of the storm.
Arnetta & Raymond Washington
ALONZO MOORE
August 13, 2008
MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE GURLEY FAMILY. YOU HAVE BEEN APART OF MY FAMILIES LIFE FOR OVER 2 AND A HALF DECADE. AS YOU HAVE, WE TOO HAVE LOST A FATHER, BROTHER AND FRIEND. I THANK GOD THAT I WAS ABLE TO SPEAK TO HIM AND WE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME TOGETHER. KNOWING THAT HE IS IN GODS HANDS IS A BLESSING. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED AND REMEMBERED IN OUR HEARTS.
ALONZO (AL) MOORE AND FAMILY
Amy Ward
August 13, 2008
I was so sorry to read about Mr. Gurley. I was fortunate enough to know him while working at Spratley. He was such a nice man and dedicated teacher. 43 years - WOW! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sue & Don Barr
August 13, 2008
Mr. Gurley taught my son at Asbury and left a lasting impression. He was not only a wonderful teacher, but a wonderful human being. We will always hold a special spot in our hearts for him.
JOYCE GREEN MCAFEE
August 13, 2008
MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY AT THIS TIME. GOD WILL HEAL ALL WOUNDS, AND DRY ALL TEARS. YOU ARE A BLESSING TO ALL THAT YOU HAVE TOUCHED. WE WERE CLASSMATES IN SCHOOL. BUT NOW YOU ARE IN GOD'S HANDS SMILING DOWN ON US. WE SHALL MEET AGAIN. FROM ONE OF YOUR LOVING CLASSMATES AND FRIENDS.
Cynthia (Mangrum) Fox
August 13, 2008
To the Family,
Praying God's peace upon each of you during this time. He will see you through.
Love
Daniel Barr
August 13, 2008
Mr. Gurley taught me in 6th grade at Asbury Elementary. While he of course taught me spelling and math, he also taught me something more important. He taught me how to push yourself to be better. He taught me that competition is a great motivator. And I am still motivated by him today. I remember him and his words - "You can judge a man's character when his back is against the wall." Thank you Mr. Gurley for teaching me something that means so much to me today.
Kelly Gardner
August 13, 2008
I worked with Mr Gurley at Spratley for the past 6 years. Each day he would greet me with a smile that would warm the heart. There was not a day we did not spend planning time or lunch joking about something.
The love he had for his family and his teaching was evident in everything he did. He often spoke of his trips to Gloucester with one of his grandchildren. He spoke with such affection and a sparkle in his eye.
Mr. Gurley was a teacher to be admired and respected. He changed lives and made a difference, and I am better for having known him. He will be missed.
Kelly Gardner
Laurence Parker
August 13, 2008
I WAS ONE OF MANY STUDENTS THAT MR. GURLEY HAD HE WAS ALWAYS RELAXED AND COOL I STILL A SUPRISE THAT THIS HAPPEND 2 DAYS BEFORE IS BIRTHDAY HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY INCLUDING ME
Sean Ribeiro
August 13, 2008
I pray that God comforts the Gurley family in their time of grief. I too worked with Mr. Gurley at Spratley and I can honestly say he was an outstanding educator and friend. I still recall conversations with "fatboyslim"(nickname) and how his sincerity to see others do well in life echoes in my own personal life. You will definetly be missed "fatboyslim", a true educational icon.
Tandie Taliaferro
August 13, 2008
It was a pleasure to work with Mr. Gurley at Spratley. My thoughts and prayers are with the Gurley Family. God Bless You All.
Takisha White
August 13, 2008
To The Gurley Family,
Your husband, father, grandfather, uncle and cousin is a GREAT MAN. Mr. Gurley was my teacher when I was in middle some years ago. He was a motivator and a great educator. He believed in all his students and he stayed positive. Mr. Gurley was a definite who's who. He was the one WHO you will remember and never forget. Please believe our Father up high doesn’t make any mistakes and that Mr. Gurley is in Heaven now, laughing with the rest of his fraternity brothers having a Great Time. Mr. Gurley you will be miss, but I know we will see you again. Hey, Save me a Seat.
From Mary Agnes Home and Health Care
August 13, 2008
To the family and friends:
I was deeply sorrow to hear of your loss. You have my deep condolences. Psalms 46:1 reads: "God is for us a refuge and strength, a help that can readily be found during distresses."
S Chandler
August 13, 2008
Daddy,
You will be in my heart forever and I will never forget the life lessons that you taught me.
Love,
Stephanie
beth bond
August 13, 2008
I worked with Mr. Gurley at Spratley when I first started teaching. He was always the bright spot in my day. He always shared a smile and a few encouraging words. He will be missed.
Beth (Shomaker) Bond
Frank Chandler
August 13, 2008
LOVE U POPS I MISS U. JUNNY
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