March 10, 2025, 77, Goldsboro —

Linwood Gregory Gurley, 77, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, March 10, 2025. Greg was born in Wayne County to the late Willie B. Gurley and Lou Ellen Hare Gurley on January 5, 1948. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jesse William Gurley; brother Simon Joseph Gurley; and sister-in-law Annie Pearl Gurley.

Greg dedicated over 30 years of his life to Wayne County Public Schools, where he worked as a carpenter in the maintenance department. He also proudly served in the North Carolina Army National Guard. After his retirement from the school system, he continued to share his time and talents by helping his son with his lawn care business. Greg’s generosity and willingness to lend a hand to others were a true reflection of his character.

A passionate sports fan, Greg had a deep love for baseball and was especially fond of the New York Yankees. However, his greatest passion was coaching. Whether it was softball, baseball or basketball, Greg’s heart was in every game, teaching the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship to countless athletes of all ages. His legacy as a coach will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to play under his guidance.

Greg enjoyed his monthly breakfast meetings with the retired school maintenance team, and the weekly Hardee’s men’s group as they reminisced about days of old and discussed current happenings.

Together with his beloved wife, Jo, he shared a bond that was truly special, traveling and experiencing life side by side. Their love and commitment to each other were unwavering, and their adventures were a testament to the deep connection they shared. Greg was also a proud and loving father to his daughter, Shannon, and son, Scott, always making sure they felt supported, valued, and loved. His family meant the world to him, and his legacy will live on through the countless memories he created with them. One of his greatest joys was his grandchildren. He was always a proud Poppy and more than willing to tell anyone that would listen about his two grandchildren.

Greg regularly attended church with his wife and children until his health no longer permitted it, and in 2019 he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. As a member of Rosewood Baptist Church, he had many friends and enjoyed traveling to hear the many talented southern gospel groups in the area.

Greg is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jo Carraway Gurley; children, Shannon Gurley Walker and husband, Craig of Winterville and Scott Gurley and wife, Stephanie of Pikeville; grandchildren, Hayleigh Walker and Joshua Walker. He is also survived by his brother, Wayne Garland Gurley and wife, Brenda, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply.

A service to celebrate Greg’s life will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025 at 1pm in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home. The family will receive friends prior to the service, from 12pm until 1pm. Internment will be held at Wayne Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Greg’s memory to the East Coast Gospel Music Association c/o ECGMA at 2065 Woodard Road, Princeton NC 27569.