Foy "Gene" Eugene Kurley

Foy “Gene” Eugene Kurley, 80, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026. Born June 12, 1946, Gene was born and grew up in Olin, North Carolina, and carried the steady values of home with him for the rest of his life.

Gene served his country with unwavering commitment, joining the United States Marine Corps and completing two tours of duty in Vietnam. After returning, he taught demolition at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. During his years in uniform, he received numerous honors and awards—recognitions that reflected not only duty fulfilled, but the kind of steadfast devotion that guided his life.

That same work ethic followed Gene into the communities of Statesville and Iredell County, where he put his remodeling skills to use with pride and persistence. He was the project foreman for the building of the Public Library, a lasting mark of the care he took in doing things the right way and seeing them through.

For 37 years, Gene shared life with his wife, Rhonda Kay Fesperman Kurley. Those who knew him best understood the quiet strength of his loyalty—shown in the way he stood by the people he loved, and in the steady presence he offered to family and friends alike.

Gene also made time for the things that brought him joy. He enjoyed bowling and often traveled to bowl in tournaments. He also loved showing and driving his restored truck, taking genuine pleasure in the craftsmanship and pride of a job well done.

Gene was preceded in death by his father, Foy Pink Kurley; his mother, Rachel Mae Horton Kurley; and his brother, Terry Wayne Kurley. He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Kay Fesperman Kurley; his sons, Michael Scott Kurley and Keith Allen Kurley; his daughter, Lisa Carol Kurley; his sister, Patricia Stephen; his grandson, David McMahan; his granddaughter, Lori Parham; and eight great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home in Statesville, North Carolina, on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A graveside service with full military honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery at 2:30 pm. Pastor Bill Troutman will officiate.

Pallbearers will be David McMahan, Bob Fesperman, David Fesperman, Michael Holleman, Garett Fesperman, and Ethan Fesperman.

Many special thanks to his caretaker, Noel, for the wonderful service she provided in caring for Gene.

Condolences may be shared with the family, online at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of Gene and his family.