Jewel Gurley

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mrs. Jewel Gurley, who was born on March 16, 1936, in Huntsville, Alabama, to the late Jessie Cleveland Sampson and Luola Lang Sampson. She departed this life on May 18, 2025, at the age of 89.

Jewel was a remarkable soul, known for her unwavering kindness, deep compassion, and unshakable faith. She lived a life dedicated to her family, community, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and wisdom.

A devoted follower of Christ, Jewel loved the Lord with all her heart and was a faithful member of Union Baptist Church as long as she was able to attend. Her church family brought her immense joy, comfort, and purpose, and her faith was the guiding light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Delphus Gurley; her parents, Jessie Cleveland Sampson and Luola Lang Sampson; sisters, Joy Sampson Miller and Helen Sampson Bolden; and brothers, J.C. Sampson, Curtis Sampson, and Monroe Sampson.

Jewel is survived by her son, Jerry Gurley (Keith Lass), cherished granddaughters, Jennifer Hamsing (Michael) and Melissa Anderson, beloved great-grandchildren, Corianne Downs (Dustin), John Hamsing, Jody Hamsing, and Liberty Anderson; and treasured great-great-grandchildren, Logan Downs, Luke Downs, and Liliana Downs. She is also lovingly remembered by her extended family at StoneRidge Assisted Living and her special friends Tammy Locke and Carolyn James.

She had a gentle strength that inspired those around her. She loved children, flowers, animals, reading and was passionate about genealogy—treasuring the stories of her family’s past. She also loved the color pink and enjoyed visiting with her special friend, Mrs. Grace, at StoneRidge Assisted Living. Jewel was a quiet force of love and light to all who knew her.

A celebration of her life will be held on 1:00 pm Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Rayburn Richardson officiating. Burial will follow in the Union Baptist Church Cemetery.

A Family and Friends Gathering will be at 12:00 pm to service time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Union Baptist Church or the Alcorn County Animal Shelter in honor of her generous and caring spirit.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

May she rest in eternal peace.