James Gurley

Rockport, Texas

James Cleo ( JC ) Gurley, 89, went to be with the Lord on June 13, 2021. James was born on September 5, 1931, to parents Harry James Gurley and Viola Irene Thornton in Portland, Texas.

James is preceded in death by His parents, his sister Elizabeth Jane Nesbitt, Son-In-Law Jerry E Place, grandson Patrick Harrell and great-grandson Dalton S Tuorila

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 70 years, Lois M. Gurley; Children Cyndy (David) Tuorila, Roy Gurley, Trisha (Royce) Harrell, and Darren (Jo Ann) Gurley. Grand Children Sam Tuorila, Bridgette Pyle, Christy Vanness, Jerry (Bubba) Place, Taylor Place, Eugene Ingburg, Jackie Gurley, Christina Montemayor, Eddie Miller, Charlotte Harrell, Royce Harrell III, and 26 Great Grand Children.

JC was born in Portland TX and moved to Rockport when he was five years old. He attended Rockport Schools where he met the love of his life, Lois Townsend. He wrote in her JR high yearbook that he was going to marry her one day and true to his word, on February 2, 1951, he did just that. They recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. They lived in Rockport and raised four children, while JC worked for the City of Rockport. He was a Volunteer with the Rockport Fire Department and Aransas County Emergency Corp and was the treasurer for those organizations for over 25 years. After 31 years with the city, JC retired as The Director of Public Works and he and Lois moved to their ranch in Leakey, TX where they lived for 30 years. They spent their retirement years raising goats and enjoying the Hill country. JC was an avid hunter and outdoorsman and most of the time you could find him outdoors working around the ranch. While in Leakey they became members of the Church in the Valley. JC was a devoted Christian and had a great love for the Lord, reading his bible daily. In 2016 the Gurley’s returned home to Rockport at the urging of their children, who all still live here.

James was a caring, loving Husband, Dad, and Papa. He was talkative and funny and always had a story to tell that would entertain everyone around. JC passed from this world a young man, as he always said you weren’t old till you reached 90. He was sitting in his favorite chair, holding his wife’s hand, surrounded by his children, some grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. What an amazing life he led! He was loved by so many, had a kind and caring heart, and had a heart for Jesus. We know the good Lord has you wrapped in his arms and has the most amazing, beautiful place for you to hang out until the rest of us join you.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 18, 2021, and Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 19, 2021, at Charlie Marshal Funeral Home, 814 E Market Street in Rockport, Interment to follow at Rockport Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to:

Charlie Marshall Funeral Home & Crematory

2003 W. Wheeler

Aransas Pass, Texas 78336