Brother Howard Richard Gurley
The Lodge regrets to announce the passing of Brother Howard Richard “Rick” Gurley.
“Rick” was a proud Marine, dedicated Baltimore County police officer, and lifelong book lover, passed away on August 15, 2025. Rick was known for his deep faith, his many anecdotes, his goofy jokes and his heart for service. He lived a life defined by dedication, humor, and kindness. Rick served his country in the United States Marine Corps and the Maryland Air National Guard, and protected his community as a Baltimore County police officer and volunteer paramedic. His many varied personal interests and hobbies included martial arts and chess, which he shared passionately by teaching others. After retiring from the police department, he could be found working at Barnes & Noble, an institution second in his heart only to church, where his love of literature and connecting with readers of all ages became a second career. Whether in uniform or with a novel in hand, Rick brought joy to those around him with his warm smile, easy laugh and gentle nature. His legacy will live on in the countless lives that he touched.
Beloved father of Mark Gurley and his partner Bryan Vana; cherished grandfather of Daniel Gurley and his girlfriend Missy Mullin; loving brother of Mary Jo Davis, Anne Sanner, Pat Gurley and Jim Gurley (Neile Graham); former spouse of Ginny Hamilton; he is also survived by many nieces, nephews and other loving family members and friends. Rick was preceded in death, just recently, by his very dear companion of many years, Betty Hill. Also preceding him in death were his brother Don Gurley and his parents, Howard Leroy Gurley, Jr. and Marie Gurley.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley Inc. on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 5-8 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27th at 10 am at the Catholic Community of St. Francis Xavier, 1317 Cuba Road, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030, followed by burial at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Rick’s name to the Foundation for Baltimore County Library https://foundationforbcpl.org/support-us/ or Catholic Charities of Maryland https://cc-md.org/.
