Melvin Eugene Gurley

Melvin Eugene Gurley, age 86 of Princeton, Texas, passed away November 7, 2017 in McKinney, Texas. He was born on May 20, 1931 in Makanda, Illinois to Jess and Mary (Elder) Gurley. Melvin married Dawn Parkerson on May 3, 1969 in Benton, Illinois, and they raised a wonderful family together. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, worked as a mechanical engineer and was a member of the Baptist faith.

Melvin was a warm and funny guy with a crazy sense of humor. There was never a dull moment when he was around. He was a huge NASCAR fan and enjoyed driving race cars, as well as repairing and rebuilding cars. Melvin enjoyed traveling, too. He and Dawn traveled all over the United States, and they also traveled to Europe. Melvin had another talent that not everyone was aware of. He was an amazing artist! He could draw anything, and he had actually painted beautiful murals in every room in their home. Melvin will be missed by his family and friends, but he will never be forgotten. They will always remember his laughter and the way he made them feel loved and appreciated.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 48 years, Dawn Gurley; four sons, David Gurley and wife, Bev, and Jonathan Gurley, Patrick Gurley, and Gregory Gurley; one daughter, Robin Austin and husband, Gerry; six grandchildren, Desiree, Jason, Christopher, Brandie, Alison, and Justin; and six great-grandchildren, Jayden, Makayla, Carter, Elizabeth, Sadie, and Caroline. He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Cindy Gurley, and his brother, Kenneth Gurley.At Melvin's request, no formal services will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Princeton, Texas.