John C. Gurley, III, age 75

John C. Gurley, III of Conway, AR, passed away on April 27, 2023 at the age of 75. John was born to the late John C. “Pete” Gurley, II and Jade Fryer Gurley on August 16, 1947 in Little Rock, AR. Being the eldest was a dubious task but he was up for the challenge as he led and tormented his siblings, Mike, Eric, and Linc, through a childhood of brotherly pranks, antics, and neighborhood mischief.

It was clear from an early age that John was strong-willed, fearless, and mighty stubborn, but those traits defined him. As a motorcycle enthusiast and racing fan, John became a flat track motorcycle racer at the age of 16.  He found success racing competitively in Arkansas and surrounding states, setting numerous records at the time.

After graduating high school John proudly served his country as a Green Beret, in which he saw action in the Vietnam War as a member of the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), one of the most decorated United States Army Special Forces groups in the U.S.

After returning home to Little Rock, John met his future wife and partner in life, Joy Lynn Jones. The two were married in 1972 and later welcomed their only child together, John C. Gurley, IV. John and Joy enjoyed over 50 years of marriage filled with good food, good laughter, and not-so-good golf.

John enjoyed a long career at Southwestern Bell, where he was considered a kind and thoughtful boss, who always had the backs of those who worked for him.  Everyone has a John story, and he will be missed and remembered by the many lives he touched during his nearly 30 years of service before retiring in 2001.

During his retirement he loved being outdoors, from grilling around the pool to playing golf with his friends as a member of Centennial Valley Country Club.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joy; one son, John (Jennifer) of Maumelle, AR; brother Linc (Shelbie) of North Little Rock, AR, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

John is preceded in death by his father, John C. “Pete” Gurley, II, mother Jade Fryer Gurley, and brothers Mike Gurley and Eric Gurley.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the physicians and staff at CARTI in Little Rock, the nursing staff and physical therapists at Baptist Health in Conway, and to Dr. Lowry Barnes at UAMS for the care they provided during the last years of John’s amazing life.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to CARTI’s Head and Neck Cancer Program or to your local community, no-kill animal shelter.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com