Thomas Gordon Gurley, age 85, passed away on Sunday, August 22, 2021 at Gracious Living Retirement Community in Southern Pines. Tom and his wife owned a horse farm in Vass, NC for over 20 years. Thomas was born in Cedar Grove, Tennessee on July 27, 1936 to the late N. A. and Emma Gurley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Junior, Henry and Johnny Gurley. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Kathy Gurley, and many nieces and nephews. Tom served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1958 – 1960, based at Camp Lejeune.
Tom worked for Goodyear for 33 years. He started his career in the Research Division where he created a new polymer that has been used in artificial hearts. After servicing as Special Assistant to the President, he became Director of Retread Manufacturing in 1978. He later moved into Tire Development as Worldwide Coordinator for Earthmover Tires and later to Manager, Aircraft Tire Development.
Tom had a pilot’s license and was part of Goodyear’s flying club. He loved sailing and raced Thistle sailboats. He enjoyed fast cars and racing his thoroughbred horses. Later in life he enjoyed trail riding and showing hunters and jumpers, sometimes even beating his wife in horse shows.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Memory of Thomas Gurley to SPCA, 200 Petfinder Lane, Raleigh NC 27603 or visit www.spcawake.org.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to www.coxmemorialfuneralhome.com.
The family has entrusted services to Cox Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Vass.
