Rock Charles Hurley, age 70, of Brownstown, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at his home.

Mr. Hurley was a faithful member of Brownstown Christian Church for 44 years, where he taught Sunday School for high school students and faithfully served as a Deacon. He was also a devoted teen bible study teacher during Wednesday night church.

Rock was a dedicated and passionate educator, who devoted nearly four decades to teaching. He graduated from Jennings County High School, where he was a stand-out wrestler and football player. After his high school graduation, he attended and graduated from Ball State University, where he was a member of the 1976 Mac Championship Team as a starting nose tackle. While attending Ball State University, he met his wife, Sally. After their marriage, he began his teaching career at Jeffersonville High School, where he taught for three years. He then joined the faculty at Brownstown Central High School, where he taught for 36 years as a History, Physical Education, and Drivers Ed teacher. He was also instrumental and proud of starting the school-to-work program before retiring in 2018.

In addition to his work in the classroom, Rock was a devoted football and track coach for more than 20 years, making a lasting impact on countless students and athletes throughout his career. In 2000, Rock founded Driver’s Ed LLC, where he taught and mentored young drivers. He remained actively involved in the business until the time of his passing. Throughout his teaching career, Rock was also an active member of the Classroom Teachers Association.

Beyond his professional career, Rock found great joy in being involved with the family farm. He and his family worked together in raising crops and Angus cattle, creating many cherished memories through their shared love of farm life.

Family was at the heart of Rock’s life. He loved his family deeply and was dearly loved in return. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. He cherished watching them grow, cheering them on as they played sports, and sharing special moments singing together. He also cherished the moments he spent playing princesses with his granddaughters, and he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan throughout his entire life.

Born on March 18, 1956, in Seymour, Rock was the son of Charles and Mildred “Nan” (Shelton) Hurley, both of whom preceded him in death. On June 28, 1980, at North Vernon Christian Church, he married Sally Johnston, and she survives in Brownstown.

Survivors also include one son, Brant Hurley (Laura Pate) of North Vernon; two daughters: Loriann (John) Wessel of Seymour, and Fayeann (Clay) Hauer of Brownstown; five grandchildren: Carly Wessel, Henry Wessel, Lorene Hauer, Ellie Hauer, and an expected grandson, Baby Boy Hauer; two brothers: Carmen (Vicky) Hurley of Westfield, and Matt (Kathy) Hurley of North Vernon; two sisters: Rita Hurley of North Vernon, and Lorraine (Brad) Vacketta of Columbus; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Rock was also preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bill and Diane Johnston.

Funeral services for Rock Charles Hurley will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Brownstown Christian Church, with Pastor Mitchell McIntyre officiating. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Brownstown Christian Church, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to Brownstown Christian Church Benevolence, Jackson County History Center, or Donor’s Choice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com