John D. Hurley

John D. (Jack) Hurley, passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2022 at the Curtis Home in Meriden, CT.  His struggle with Parkinson’s was fought with grace, dignity and tremendous courage. 

John was a man of unparalleled character, fun loving and compassionate who prioritized faith, family, friendship and service to others.  His smile lit up the room and his heart held space for everyone.  He was loved and surrounded by a very close, caring family as well as many friends including his neighbors.

He was born in Derby on October 28th, 1947 to the late Joseph Hurley and the late Genevieve (Reilly) Hurley.  He was a lifelong resident of Shelton always loyal to his home town and to the country that he served.  He joined Boy Scout Troop 3 lead by Ed Strang as a young man and went on to become an Eagle Scout under Ed’s guidance.  He enlisted in the US Marines proudly serving four years, mostly in Vietnam.  He was honorably discharged as a Marine Sergeant and as a true American Hero. 

John went on to enjoy a long career as a truck driver, first for North American Van Lines, Watkins, then to Central Transport and then finally with FedEx.  He was always a dependable employee, loyal and reliable working endless hours on the road. 

He studied Karate as an adult earning a black belt.  He also volunteered and donated to the American Red Cross his entire life.

Besides his parents, John was predeceased by his Godmother, Helen A. Reilly, his grandparents and several cousins. 

He leaves to grieve his passing a dear sister, Patricia (Hurley) Conroy and her husband, David Conroy of Beacon Falls.  Also, his nephew David Conroy, Jr. and his wife Traci and his grandnephew, Tyler Conroy all of Southbury.  He leaves his Goddaughter, Stephanie O’Keefe and his Godfather and cousin, Richard Patterson of St. Petersburg, FL, as well as many cherished cousins and an extended family.  He also leaves his constant canine companion, Sophie, who was the light of his life. 

In retirement, John volunteered endless hours at the St. Vincent de Paul Center in Derby where he continued his legacy of service to those who needed his help and encouragement.  He made many more friends there along the way who were a tremendous support to him in these last few months of his life. 

His family and friends would like to express their special thanks to Linda Cummings his caretaker, the Bella Home Health Care Agency, to Kindred Visiting Nurses, to the West Haven Veterans Hospital, to the Griffin Hospital, to the Curtis Home in Meriden, to the Franciscan Hospice Team and to MidState Medical Center for making him as comfortable as possible while he dealt with his disease.

Per John’s wishes, all services will be private.  The James T. Toohey & Son Funeral Home, 92 Howe Ave., Shelton has been entrusted with arrangements. 

He will truly be missed by those that he touched.

To Honor this American Hero, please make a donation to the St. Vincent de Paul Center, 237 Roosevelt Dr., Derby, CT 06418 and be kind to the next veteran that you pass for John.

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