Charles M. Hurley

HURLEY, Charles M., 88, a longtime Longmeadow resident, died peacefully on January 18, 2021 in Hyannis, MA after contracting COVID-19. Charles was born in Waltham, MA, son of Michael and Mary (Sweeney) Hurley. A multi-sport, all-star athlete at St. Mary’s High School in Waltham, he later played football at Boston College, where he earned a business degree (‘54). Charles was a U.S. Marine during the Korean War and proud to see two generations of family continue the tradition of military service. After starting his insurance career in Boston, he founded and operated Charles Hurley Associates in Springfield, MA for over 40 years, retiring at the age of 75. Charles immersed himself in charitable activities and served as president of Big Brothers of Greater Springfield, where he expanded programs in minority neighborhoods and revitalized fundraising. He was a strong supporter of Catholic education, an ardent Boston College Eagles fan and vigorous advocate for youth sports programs. Founder of the St. Mary’s, Longmeadow CYO basketball program, his innovative coaching methods developed hidden talent and led to several Western Mass and New England championship teams. Charles was also a respected political strategist who served in leading roles on local and state Democratic campaigns and inspired others to political service; active into his later years, he guided his son Patrick’s successful campaigns for office. Charles’ life was one of dedication to service and principles focused on family, his Catholic faith and community, and he never turned away those in need.
Charles was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Helen Collins Hurley, and is survived by seven children, Brian and wife Nancy of Wayland; Charlene Kuczarski and husband Chris of Springfield; Kathleen Keohane and husband Chris of Sandwich; Mary Ellen Ricketts of Sandwich; Maureen Reusch and husband John of Longmeadow; Michael of Springfield; Patrick and wife Cindy of Summit, NJ. Charles and Helen are also survived by fifteen beloved grandchildren: Bryan, Meghan, Michael, John, Colin, Patrick, Katelyn, Ellen, Daniel, Kelsey, Caroline, Emily, Kathleen, William, Kellyn; and great grandson Theo.
Services will be private but live-streamed on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 11:00 AM. A post-COVID memorial service will be planned to celebrate with family, friends and the many whose lives Charles touched. Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary’s Parish, 519 Longmeadow St, Longmeadow, MA 01106 or at stmarylong.org.

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