It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyn Kay Gurley, on August 25, 2025, at age 85.
Evelyn was born on February 24, 1940, in Mill Shoals, IL, to Madge Endicott and James Endicott. She grew up in St. Louis, MO, alongside her sisters Shirley and Doris Endicott and brother Jim Endicott. She married Donald Sturgess and together they had Donald Andre (Andy) Sturgess and Alison Lynn Sturgess. Later she married again to the love of her life, Kenneth Lee Gurley and remained married until his death in 2006. Together they had their daughter, LeAnn Kay Meier (nee Gurley). Ken and Evelyn had six children including Kay Moxley (nee Gurley), Keith Gurley, and Stephen Gurley.
Evelyn retired from Ralston Purina at 52 years old after working there her whole career. She regularly donated to women’s shelters and the boys and girls club.
She is survived by her loving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Daughter Kay Moxley (nee Gurley) and grandchildren Kristina Bennett and Jeff Moxley. Son, Keith Gurley and his wife Tracey Gurley and grandchildren Jessica and her husband Jim Thacker, Tyler and his wife Mary McCready, Cody Gurley and Alizibeth Gamble. Son, Stephen Gurley and his wife Adrienne Gurley and grandchildren Matt and his wife Samantha Gurley, and Mallory Gurley. Son, Donald (Andy the prince) Sturgess and granddaughter Madeline Kay Sturgess. Daughter, Alison Lynn Sturgess and granddaughter Sarah Lynn Childs (nee Sturgess) and her husband Scott Alan Childs and great grandchildren Brody Alan and Blaze Alexander Childs. Daughter, LeAnn Kay Meier (nee Gurley) and her husband John Charles Meier and grandchildren, Braden Lee Glass, John Frederick Meier, Shane Patrick Glass, and Joshua Charles Meier.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Lee Gurley. She will be remembered for her kindness, love, generosity, and her love for sweets and a home cooked meal. Evelyn loved her family more than anything, she especially enjoyed being a grandmother. She was her happiest when she was surrounded by all of her family and closest friends. She loved to take care of and serve her family; it was her biggest accomplishment. Her favorite hobbies included reading, especially on the beach, playing cards and golf, and watching SVU, 60 Minutes, and Seinfeld.
Services: Evelyn’s visitation will be held at Kutis Funeral Home South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd. Mehlville, MO, 63129) on August 29, 2025 from 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the same place on August 30, 2025 at 8 a.m. Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery at 9 a.m.
Our condolences and prayers go out to the family of Evelyn Gurley. I do know one thing, Evie and Dad are together again and have to be so happy. I hope that brings some comfort to the family. We have many great memories of our times with them.. May God bless this family during this very difficult time.
Love,, Kay, Jeff Moxley and Kristina Moxley (Bennett)
Dear Alison,
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you and your family.
With sympathy,
Wendy Low
I remember Evelyn from Ralston Purina and remember who she worked for, I believe Gene Drewes. She was good friend of Charlotte Engle at RP.
I remember she said one time that driving she always needed her radio turned on
Cathy Roche
From 3A floor