John Michael Hurley of Cary, North Carolina, passed away on May 24, 2026.

John was born in Oswego, New York. He attended Oswego State University and had a lifelong interest in history. His career journey was always in the construction industry, first serving as a field engineer supporting the construction of nuclear plants in Oswego during the 1980s and then working at residential and commercial building supply companies in the Syracuse area. When he and Linda moved to North Carolina in 2006, he found a position that continued to use his knowledge of construction and project management skills, and he enjoyed the team he worked with at Enwood Structures until his passing.

John took up the guitar in his teens and never lost his passion for music. Throughout his life, he played in various bands and was a devoted fan of rock music. Whenever a favorite song came on the radio, John was always ready with an air guitar performance and knew every riff by heart. He spent many Saturdays at Oswego Speedway in his younger years and remained a race fan for life.

John was also an excellent cook, and his homemade sauce and meatballs were a family favorite. A devoted partner to Linda, he valued the life they built together and the years they shared. John loved the Yankees, Budweiser, and his black single-cab short-bed Chevy truck. He was always true to himself, a true original, and had a knack for finding the fun in life. He will be remembered for his stories, his sense of humor, and the many good times he shared with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Teresa and James T. Hurley; his sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Hurley; and his brother, James Hurley.

John is survived by his wife, Linda Drisko Hickok of Cary, NC; his daughter, Melissa Hurley Pannozzo (Anthony); his son, Michael Hurley; and his beloved grandson, Mason Pannozzo.

Please consider a contribution in his memory to Meals on Wheels of Wake County in Raleigh, NC.