Obituary of William R. Scurry

William (affectionately known as Jake to some) was born December 20, 1939 in Edgefield, South Carolina to the late Callie Roberson Scurry and Holly Scurry Sr. William answered God's call and peacefully entered into the eternal Rest on February 11, 2025.

William began his education in Springfield, SC however the family migrated to Salem County New Jersey in 1950 where he would attend Alloway School. He would then move on the Woodstown High School where he would letter in both Football and Track. After graduating from High School, he joined the United States Marine Corp. While in the USMC he traveled to the Far East and spent time in Thailand and Vietnam. William began to work at Dupont once his tour of duty was completed with the USMC. He then went on to work at DuPont Chambers Works, where he worked until he retired at age 58.

In 1970 he would meet and eventually marry his wife of the last 54 years Melvina Elizabeth Conaway. They had 4 children, William R. Owens ('Laura), Ramona L Bryant (Willie), Tamekia L. McNair and the late James Arthur Scurry. He is very proud to have seen all of his children attend college, something he desired for them. William has been blessed to have 8 grandchildren; (William Raymond Owens Jr., Bridgette Brown, Kyle Brown, Korey Bryant, Taniqua Walker-Hodgins, Quinton Bryant, Gabby Owens, Matthew Owens, bonus grandson Gregory Pitts); 13 great grandchildren; (Cierra Brown, Nicolette Owens, Trinity Owens, Willow Bryant, Jaelynn Brown, Lazarus Brown, Sarafina Brown, Kyle Brown Jr., Roman Brown, Joaquin Brown, Tatiana Brown). He raised his family in the church home of St. James Baptist Church of Norma, N.J. where he served as Chairman of the Deacon's Board.

William's community service began at an early age when he would be working on the farms in Salem County and providing whatever assistance he could to his neighbors. Formally he has served as a trustee for his church, transportation coordinator, he sang on 3 choirs for St. James and would step in as a brother, father whatever was needed he is was there…. He also belongs to several organizations outside the church that serve the community. He belonged to the Fraternal Order of Prince Hall Free Masons and served as Past Master of Ionic Lodge #40 of Bridgeton NJ, Past Patron of Order of Eastern Stars Chapter #15 also of Bridgeton, DeHugo Consistory #2; he previously served as a member of Cumberland County Human Relations Commission; the Community Townsmen Organization; Bridgeton African American Union and One man can make a difference campaign. He was a member of the South Jersey Community Men's Gospel Choir.

But most importantly let's not forget he was a "True Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rider".

William leaves behind to celebrate his life and mourn his passing: His loving and devoted Wife, Melvina Scurry; son, William Raymond Owens (Laura) Glassboro NJ, Ramona Conaway-Bryant (Willie) Stone Mt Georgia, Tamekia McNair Bridgeton NJ, one brother, Henry Scurry and one sister, Julia Burrus both from Bridgeton, NJ, 9 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, one Bonus son, Benjamin H. Conaway (Pamela) Millville, NJ and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

William was predeceased by his parents, Hollie Scurry Sr and Callie Roberson Scurry. His son James Arthur Scurry four brothers Holly Scurry Jr., Joel Scurry, John Scurry MC Scurry and James A Scurry, Five sisters Julia Scurry, Callie Bryant, Dorothy Simpson, Ethel Mae Victor and Susie Scurry, and one Godson Brandt Elliot Lollie.

His favorite scripture: Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Favorite song "If I can help somebody, then my living shall not be in Vain"

William is loved by all who know him and can often be heard saying: "I Love You and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it" He would like to give a special thanks to his wife who continue to share him with those in need.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 9am to 11am, followed by funeral services at 11am at St. James Baptist Church, Gershal Ave., Norma, NJ. Burial will follow in Gouldtown Cemetery, Bridgeton. Arrangements are by DeMarco-Luisi Funeral Home 2755 S. Lincoln Ave., Vineland.