Barton C. Gurley

A Rich Full Life – Barton Clay Gurley Barton Clay Gurley was born July 13, 1950, to Jesse Clay Gurley and Erma Richardson Gurley in Philadelphia, PA. Sunday morning, July 7, 2024, God called Bart, as he was affectionally known, to his Heavenly home. After his father passed, Barton, being the man, he was raised to be, cared for his mother whom he loved dearly until her passing. Bart was educated in the Philadelphia School System, graduating from West Philadelphia High, home of the “Speedboys” in 1968. After finishing high school, Bart worked for Sears, Budd and finally The School District of Philadelphia where he remained for 35 years, before retiring in 2007. Growing up, Bart and his father Jesse enjoyed watching wrestling and football together. That, along with being an athlete himself, spurred his love of the game of football making Bart a lifelong and avid fan of The Philadelphia Eagles and The Philadelphia 76ers. Keeping with his “need for speed” Bart was a lover of muscle cars, stock car racing and rail car racing. If you were ever riding along the East and West River drives, you found Bart riding his bike. Although Bart was an only child, we know our cousins are our first friends. He and his beloved cousins spent many days at his grandparents’ home bonding over all the good and wonderful things growing up in the 1960’s had to offer. Bart was a GREAT friend to all, but especially his close buddies and lifelong friends, who he shared many adventures, going to events and just good times. That love of people extended to his community and neighbors. Bart had an affection for those on the 5300 block of Chancellor Street, and the 5300 block of Chancellor Street, had an affection for him. You could find Bart sitting on his porch drinking a cup of coffee, reading his newspaper, listening to music, and holding court. You would hear “Hey Bart,” or “Hi Mr. Bart” at any time as neighbors passed by. If you knew Bart, pinochle was his game. He and his friends formed a hot, “spirited” Tuesday night game. In the late 70’s, while at an event, Bart met the woman who would become the love of his life. Some time passed before they had their first date; but when they did, sparks flew. As life goes, Bart and Anita parted ways until 19 years ago when they were again reunited. This time, neither let the other get away. In 2016 Anita Cooper became Anita Cooper Gurley, his wife. We know Bart was not one for all the “fluff” but that day, their wedding day, you could see the love and adoration they had, one for the other. Bart and Anita have spent the last 19 years loving and cherishing each other, both with joy and with laughter. Bart leaves to cherish and hold dear his memory, his wife Anita Cooper Gurley, his bonus daughter Ronette Thompson (Kenneth), grandchildren Brianna Streeter and Khalil Streeter, great granddaughter, Kamille Germany Streeter, a host of loving cousins, family, and beloved lifelong friends and community.

Barton C. Gurley

July 13, 1950 - July 7, 2024