Gary Miles Hurley

Gary Miles Hurley, 75, was born in Stamford, CT, and raised by Jack and Marjorie (Miles) Hurley. He spent a great deal of his life as a mechanical engineer, spearheading countless class-leading projects and supervising many more, including various nuclear reactor systems aboard United States Naval submarines. Upon his eventual retirement from his highly successful career, he spent his final years in sunny Fort Pierce, Florida, where he passed away peacefully in his bed at home.

Gary is survived by his four siblings: Jack Hurley, Bill Hurley, Wayne Hurley, and Cheryl Carlson; his five children: Marissa Butler, Michael Hurley, Nicholas Hurley, Shaun Hurley, and Bryan Hurley; and his four grandchildren: Patrick Butler, Shane Butler, Kevin Hurley, and Cody Hurley.

Gary was truly one of a kind—humble, lighthearted, optimistic, and endlessly kind. His quick-witted humor and well-mannered sarcasm could bring laughter to any moment. He never spoke an unkind word about the people in his life and always saw the good in any situation. Through this natural ability, he inspired every person he met to do the same. If someone was being unfairly judged, he had a way of seamlessly shifting the conversation toward positivity—reminding people to be patient, understanding, respectful, and to always seek the best in others.

His greatest concern was always other people—making sure they were comfortable, taken care of, and had what they needed. No matter the circumstances, he could always find the right words to make you smile and see the light. His innate ability to connect with people was simply inspirational.

Gary was also incredibly meticulous. Whether it was tracking every bill and appointment, researching the perfect desk chair, or journaling his daily interactions, he paid attention to the details of life. While he may not have appeared outwardly sentimental, his actions told another story. If you crossed his path, you mattered to him—enough so that he would make a note of it in his journal, so he would never forget the small, “insignificant” moments.

Despite facing a host of health challenges in recent years, he never let them shake his spirit. No bad news could dim his light or take away his positive outlook.

To ensure his memory lives on, you are challenged today to start living each day as Gary did. Treat everyone with kindness and respect, find the good in every situation, be patient and understanding, and always choose compassion over judgment. The world was brighter because of him, and we honor his legacy by carrying forward his warmth, humor, and unwavering core belief in the goodness of all people.

Words cannot express how deeply he will be missed or the void he has left behind. However, even the best things must come to an end. After a lifetime of kindness, may he now rest in eternal, well-earned peace. Let his kind-heartedness live through you, and the next time you’re feeling down or feel like things aren’t going your way, think of Gary—and let his spirit guide you through.

Following his cremation in Florida, a celebration of Gary’s life will be held this summer at Lake Zoar in Connecticut, where he spent many joyous childhood summers with family and friends. 

In lieu of flowers, his family asks that you honor his memory through acts of kindness.  

Service details will be announced at a later date.