Sandy Goss Hurley

Sandy Goss Hurley, age 65, of Dobson, formerly of Ashe County, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Born on October 1, 1959, in Jacksonville, Florida, she was the daughter of George Wayne Goss and Gypsy Fannelle Reed Goss. Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, her dear niece Aubrey Goss, and her beloved mother-in-law, Josephine Miller Hurley.

A devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, Sandy epitomized what it means to live a Jesus-filled life. She was married to her true love, Will Hurley, for 45 wonderful years, and together they built a life centered on faith, love, and family. Sandy’s positive spirit, endless grace, and unwavering kindness touched everyone she encountered. She was the light in every room, the glue that held her family together, and the kind of person who always saw the good in others. An avid reader, Sandy could often be found with her Bible, a John Grisham novel, or a Nicholas Sparks book in hand.

Sandy’s career in the newspaper industry spanned an impressive 47 years, during which she made a significant and lasting impact. Her leadership roles included serving as Publisher of The Jefferson Post, Williamson Daily News, and The Sampson Independent. She also held key positions such as Regional Sales Director/General Manager and Director of Revenue & VP of Sales and Marketing at Civitas Media. Later, she served as Regional Publisher and Director of the Graphic Design Center at Adams Publishing Group. Sandy’s expertise and dedication earned her recognition across the industry, where she served as President of both the North Carolina Press Association and the West Virginia Press Association. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Sandy believed deeply in giving back to her community. She was a proud member of Rotary, serving as Membership Committee Chair, and held leadership roles in the Kiwanis Club and as a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. Her legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

Sandy is survived by her cherished family: her husband, Will Hurley; her two sons, Wes Hurley and Holden Hurley, both of Dobson; her brothers, Rex Goss (Teressa) of West Jefferson, Ron Goss (Penny) of Bristol, TN, and Mike Goss (Becky) of Jefferson; her father-in-law, Billy Lee Hurley; her brother-in-law, Christopher Hurley; her nephew, Ryan Goss; and her niece, Hana Goss.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel with Rev. Michael Kurtz officiating. Burial will follow in Ashley Cemetery in Warrensville. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm prior to the service.

 Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Sandy’s unwavering faith, love for her family, and commitment to her community will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.