Leslie Forbes Gurley

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Leslie F. Gurley, a loving wife, devoted mother, treasured "Nana," cherished sister, and faithful friend. While our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the years we were blessed to share with her and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Leslie shared a beautiful marriage with her husband, Bryan, for nearly 46 years. Together they built a life centered on family, commitment, and unwavering support for one another. Through every joy and every challenge, their bond remained steadfast-a testament to the strength of their partnership.

To know Leslie was to know loyalty. Whether as a wife, mother, sister, friend, or coworker, she stood beside the people she cared for through every season of life. She never sought recognition or praise; instead, she quietly gave of herself, offering strength, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever it was needed.

For many years, Leslie was a dedicated banker, earning the trust and respect of countless clients and colleagues. She believed banking was about far more than numbers-it was about people. She built lasting relationships through honesty, dependability, and genuine compassion, always putting the needs of her clients first. Her integrity and work ethic left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her professionally.

Of all the roles she held throughout her life, none brought her greater joy than being "Nana." Her granddaughter, McKenzie, was the light of her life, and she treasured every laugh, hug, milestone, and memory they shared.

She is preceded in death by her father, Horatio James Forbes, Jr and mother, Lois Pendery Forbes.

Leslie is survived by her husband, Ernest Bryan Gurley, Jr.; her daughter, Courtney Cheaves; her son-in-law, Jared Cheaves; her granddaughter, McKenzie Cheaves. She was also overjoyed to know another grandchild was on the way-a precious blessing she celebrated from the moment she found out.

She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Janice Gurley; her sisters, Vicki Carlton, Penny Lites, and Diane Knowles; her niece, Erin Webb; and her nephews, Matt Carlton and Logan Knowles; with whom she shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and an unbreakable bond.

Beyond her family, Leslie leaves behind a community of friends, coworkers, and clients who became like family over the years. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued and cared for, and the kindness she shared with others will be remembered long after her passing.

Though she is no longer with us, Leslie's kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her greatest legacy is the example she set: to care deeply, give generously, and always put family first.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly carried in our hearts.

*"Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day-unseen, unheard, but always near