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Tessie Matney Hurley, 93, the wife of the Rev. Robert Lee Hurley, a retired Elder, died July 28, 2013, two hours after her 93^rd birthday, her husband said. She had been in hospice care for nearly two years, but “she was determined to hang on to see her birthday.” The funeral service was held Aug. 1 at Essex UMC, with the Rev. McCarl Roberts officiating.

Tessie Matney was born July 27, 1920.

She was a faithful pastor’s wife throughout her husband’s 55-year career. He came into the Baltimore Conference in 1964, after serving five churches on a circuit in West Virginia Conference for two years. From 1964-70, they served at Maryland Line UMC. From 1970 to 1977, his appointment was to Cockeysville UMC, then in 1977 to Essex UMC. He served there until his retirement in 1987.

Tessie Hurley was a strong believer in prayer, her husband said. She served in every church he did in one capacity or another, the first to arrive and the last to leave. One of her favorite occupations was cooking.

Survivors include her husband of 71 years, daughter Judy McLean of New Holland, Pa.; and sons, Warren Hurley of Zanesville, Ohio, Donald Hurley of Essex, and Bruce Hurley of Shrewsbury, Pa.; five granddaughters, three great grandsons and four great granddaughters.

Condolences may be sent to Rev. Robert Hurley, 1818 Middleborough Road, Essex, MD 21221.

Memorial donations may be made to the Baltimore County Fuel Fund, 6401 York Rd., Baltimore, MD 21212.