Robert "Shawn" Gourley

Robert “Shawn” Gourley, age 48, passed away on October 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. Born on August 16, 1977, in Concord, North Carolina, Shawn lived a life marked by service, devotion to family, and a spirit that brought joy and laughter to those around him.

Shawn proudly served in the United States Navy from August 1997 to October 2006. His nearly decade-long military career reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to something greater than himself. His time in the Navy shaped much of his character—disciplined yet compassionate, courageous yet humble.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Lineth Sarte-Gourley of Pensacola, Florida. Together they built a home filled with warmth and love. Shawn was a devoted father to six children: Robert James Gourley "Bobby", 25; Rebecca Jeanne Gourley "Rae", 22; Bien Matthieu Sarte, 12; and Robert Sebastian Gourley "Sebby", 5—all of Pensacola, Florida—as well as Noah Jacob Gourley, 20, and Nathaniel Josiah Gourley, 16, both of Kapolei, Hawaii.

Shawn’s parents, Pastor Troy and Denise Gourley (Retired) of Pensacola, Florida, mourn the loss of their beloved son. He is also survived by his sister Andrea Jarrard and her husband James of Westville, Florida; nieces Holly Jarrard and Eva Jarrard; and his mother- and father-in-law Hipolita and Nestor Sarte of Plaridel, Misamis Occidental in the Philippines.

His extended family includes sister in law Maycell Dumandan and her husband Iver Dumandan, Nephew Von Ember of Plaridel; brother-in-law Henel Mar Sarte of Plaridel; aunt and uncle Sandy and David Moore; cousins Sarah Smith (David) and their children all of China grove, North Carolina; cousin Stephen Moore of Concord, North Carolina; uncle and aunt Jimmy and Shelia Hyde; cousins Randy Hyde and Curtis Hyde of Concord, North Carolina; Elizabeth Hyde of Mooresville, North Carolina; Kayla Owens (Josh) of Stanfield, North Carolina; Brittanie Hyde and Allisyn Hyde of Sherrills Ford, North Carolina—and many second cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Janette Hyde of Sherrills Ford, North Carolina; B.R. Hyde of Kannapolis, North Carolina; Robert Roy Gourley of Fallon, Nevada; and Marguerite Gourley of Anchorage, Alaska.

Those who knew Shawn will remember him for his quick wit and infectious humor—he had a gift for making people laugh even in the most difficult moments. His intelligence was matched only by his imagination. He inspired others with his kindness and generosity. Whether offering encouragement or simply sharing a joyful moment with friends or family members, Shawn had an uncanny ability to lift spirits.

His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched—with love that endures across generations and continents.

May the memory of Robert “Shawn” Gourley bring comfort to all who knew him.

Instead of flowers Shawn requested that any donations be given to his wife. Below is the link for the go fund account, where donations are being accepted. 

https://gofund.me/032c7458d