John Harris Gurley, loving husband, father, uncle and friend passed peacefully at home on October 11, 2024 at the age of 85.

He was born in Memphis Tennessee on March 21, 1939 but moved to Baltimore at the age of seven.

He attended Loyola High School, Georgetown University and University of Maryland Law School, graduating second in his class in college and law school. His legal career spanned four decades starting at Semmes Bowen & Semmes followed by The Rouse Company and ending his career as General Counsel of Corporate Office Properties Trust (COPT) where he helped transition the company to a publicly traded entity.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was a devoted family man. He leaves behind his beloved wife, of 35 years, Terry Shriver and his two sons Jack and his wife Beckie and Steve and his wife Amy. John was known as "Duke" to his four grandchildren - Emma, Taylor, Jake and Morgan and his two step grandchildren Abbey and Jillian Rianhard.

John was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished his time in the great outdoors. He was happiest spending time at his farm on Taylor's Island in Maryland known as "Deadbird Farm".
He shared his love and knowledge of hunting with his sons and grandson and also mentored many young hunters.

He was a dedicated collector of unique items from auctions and his around the world travels and had them proudly displayed in both his homes in Ruxton and the Eastern Shore.

He had a passion for travel that extended beyond international destinations and also explored every corner of the United States. In 2015 he completed his quest to visit all 50 states, with Idaho being the last one on the list.

He was a director emeritus of the Baltimore Wine and Food Society.   He was a wine maker and won the Best Wine of The Year for the American Wine and Food Society in 1977.

The family will receive friends at the Ruck Towson Funeral Home,  1050 York Road (Beltway Exit 26) on Friday October 18, 2024 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM. A Memorial Service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Saturday, October 19th. at 2:00 PM. After the service there will be a Celebration of Life at the family home 2009 Indian Head Road. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Nature Conservancy. Attn: Treasury, 4245N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203 or at www.nature.org