Master Sergeant, US Air Force (Retired)
4 April 1940 – 7 April 2021
Royce was born in a two-story house on Pinson Street (Formerly AL Hwy 79) in Tarrant City, AL. As was the custom during that era the house was occupied by two families. The house was later moved to an unknown farm location, and a hardware store now occupies the site. He later moved to a two-story house on the corner of Jackson Blvd and East Lake Blvd in Tarrant City. This house was torn down and a grocery store occupies this land. At about the age of five the family moved to a one-story house on Hanover St in Tarrant City, where he grew to the age of 17. This house later burned beyond repair.
At the age of 17 on 16 April 1957 he entered the US Air Force where he served eight years until 15 April 1965. Moving back to Alabama, it was difficult to adjust to a civilian career. Five months later on 7 September he re-enlisted and served another twelve years and retired as a Master Sergeant on 1 October 1977, after service 20 years and 23 days. In addition to his active duty service he was required to serve another ten years in the Inactive Air Force Reserve and subject to re-call to active duty should the need arise. He was discharged from the Air Force Reserve on 6 September 1987 completing his obligation to the United States military.
Royce married the former Kathleen Thompson of Birmingham AL on 2 May 1961. The family finally settled down in 1977 to a permanent home in Mount Olive, Al. Royce and Kathleen had two children, a son John, and a daughter Micki (now deceased) and are the proud grandparents of a total of six boys, and several great grandchildren.
Royce’s military assignments took him, and usually the family, too many stateside and overseas stations. His assignments included at least thirteen states stretching from California to New York and Washington to Florida. His overseas assignments included Newfoundland, South Vietnam, Puerto Rico, Canada and Thailand.
Royce’s post-military career included Sheet Metal Mechanic work, four years at the Birmingham VA Hospital in Medical Administration, Payroll and Accounting billets. His final career was with the US Postal Service where he served 16 years as a Mail Handler Equipment Operator. This last job brought his total government Service, Military and Civil to 41 years, 11 months.
Royce was a member of Grand Old Gospel House in Fultondale, AL where he served the Lord for many years.
A graveside service for Royce will be held in Oakwood Memorial Gardens, Gardendale, AL on Monday, 12 April 2021 at 2:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the family of Royce Gurley.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5