Evelyn M. (Broughton) Gurney

Of Saugus, was called home to Heaven on Friday, December 29th, at the age of 93. Evelyn died peacefully in her home, surrounded by family. Born in Lynn, Mrs. Gurney spent her childhood in Marblehead with her parents and three siblings, before they moved to Saugus around 1940. In her youth, she loved to dance and made sure to teach her youngest brother, so she would always have a partner. She graduated from Saugus High School in 1948. That same year, on September 10th, she married her husband of 50 years, the late Austin A. Gurney.

Evelyn was a faithful member of the Gospel Hall of Saugus, and lived her life rooted in her faith. She and Austin often visited various Gospel Halls across the United States. She greatly enjoyed their travels and held dear all the friends they made along the way. Later in life, Evelyn shared her love of traveling with her granddaughter, taking many memorable trips throughout the country with her.

Professionally, Evelyn put her innate ability for math to use as a bookkeeper for many years. In later years she transitioned into a customer service role in the Fine China department at Macy’s in Saugus, where she loved engaging with her customers, with whom she built many strong relationships, and remembered fondly in her final days.

Her greatest role, however, was being her family’s matriarch. Evelyn was a loving and involved mother, Nana, and “Great Nina” to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was also a first-class hostess, and enjoyed serving family dinner every Sunday, often welcoming guests from Gospel Halls across the country, as well as her many friends from around the world.

Mrs. Gurney is survived by her beloved family including her three daughters and two sons-in-law; seven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; her brother and sister-in-law; and her sister; as well as many dear nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her oldest brother.

Relatives and friends were invited to attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln Ave., Saugus on Thursday, January 4. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Friday at 11 a.m. followed by interment in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody.