Saturday, September 4, 2021 saw the passing of another of the “Greatest Generation” World War II Veteran, Robert “Bob” Amburn Gourley of Marion, NC. Bob was born in Greer, SC on December 14, 1924 to the late James Lee Gourley and Nora Brooks Gourley.
He graduated from Marion High School in 1940 where he was selected for the Honor Society. He entered Davidson College in 1941, but World War II interrupted college. Bob enlisted in the Army Air Force and became a Fighter Pilot. He was stationed in Iwo Jima flying from Iwo to Japan. Bob attained the rank of Captain. After he was discharged from the Air Force, he continued to attend Davidson College graduating in 1948 with a BA in music. He taught music in Valdese for several years and then was associated with Marion Buick Company until retirement. Bob was Choir Director at First Presbyterian Church for 30 plus years. He was a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge and Past President of the Kiwanis Club and had 41 years perfect attendance. He was a member of the Marion Lake Club for about 70 years, where he enjoyed playing golf. Bob enjoyed going on many cruises with his family and friends visiting many countries.
Bob is preceded in death by his first wife, Kathryn Ballew Gourley and a brother James Lee Gourley, Jr.
He is survived by his second wife of 42 years, Edna Seaman Gourley; three children, Robert A. Gourley, Jr. (Cathy) of Newport News, VA, John B. Gourley (Debbie) of Greensboro, NC and Ellen G, Mitchell (Jeff) of Hickory, NC; eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends at Westmoreland Funeral Home on Thursday, September 9, 2021 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 10, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church conducted by Revs. George Hutchins and Robert Warren. Interment will follow the service at Oak Grove Cemetery with the United States Air Force providing military honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church at 79 Academy St, Marion, NC, 28752
The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Burton for his care for these many years, and all the healthcare providers for the past several months.