Stephen “Harley” Matthew Gurney

Stephen Matthew Gurney, lovingly known as “Harley,” passed away on June 29, 2025, in Merrimack, New Hampshire at the age of 70.

Born on New Year’s Day in 1955 in Winthrop, Massachusetts, Steve grew up primarily in Lewiston, Maine but lived all over the country—calling places like Georgia and Nevada home throughout different seasons of his life. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Steve served at the end of the Vietnam War, carrying with him a deep sense of service and compassion that remained with him always.

A skilled carpenter by trade, Steve later found his true calling as a Case Manager for the homeless—work he poured his heart into with unmatched devotion. He never judged anyone, always met people where they were, and had an unwavering belief in second chances. His kindness, empathy, and fierce dedication to helping others left a lasting impact on every life he touched.

Steve was also a passionate animal lover and a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. His love for Harley Davidsons was legendary, and he was active in several biker organizations throughout his life. He even founded his own—Road Soldiers of America—built on brotherhood, service, and community.

Known for his big heart, beautiful blue eyes, and infectious smile, Steve brought warmth and laughter wherever he went. He had a playful spirit, a deep love for his family, and a strong faith in God that anchored him.

Steve is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jessica Gurney and Allen Goodwin; his son and daughter-in-law, Matthew Gurney and Miranda Paiton; his daughter Amy Austin; and his cherished grandchildren, Cole, Avah, Olivia, Gavin, and Devin. He is also remembered by his former spouses, Danielle Pare and MaryAnn Gray; his brother and sister-in-law, David and Joanne Gurney; his sister and brother-in-law, RuthAnn and Fred Savageau; his nieces, Katherine and Melissa Gurney; and his great nieces and nephews, Alexis, Frank, and Morgan. Steve was pre-deceased by his mother Ellen Gurney, his father Eugene Gurney and his niece Kelsey Mayer.

SERVICES:  The Interment of Ashes (burial ceremony) will be held on July 17, 2025 at 9am at the NH State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen NH, all are invited to honor Steve with a full military honors ceremony. A private Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 1pm-4pm. Friends and loved ones are invited to come as they are—no need to dress up—to honor Steve in the way he lived: with love, laughter, and authenticity. If you knew and loved Steve and would like to join us, please reach out to his daughter Jessica directly for details.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Steve’s memory to support the homeless community—an act that would honor the mission closest to his heart.