Remembering SOURCE Hall of Fame Member Cathy Gurley

The SOURCE community is deeply saddened by the passing of Cathy Gurley, a trailblazing Music Row publicist, advocate, and 2018 SOURCE Hall of Fame honoree. Cathy passed away suddenly on Tuesday, January 20, at the age of 76.

Over the course of her remarkable career, Cathy worked with some of country music’s most respected artists, including Tanya Tucker, Garth Brooks, Kathy Mattea, Marty Stuart, and Gary Morris. Her work as a publicist, executive, and entrepreneur helped shape careers, elevate voices, and set a standard for excellence and integrity on Music Row.

Cathy’s path into the music business began in journalism and radio, eventually leading her to Nashville where she served as Director of Public Information for the Country Music Association. In 1985, she founded Gurley & Co., building a firm that handled publicity, marketing, and creative services for artists and labels alike. Her influence reached every corner of the industry.

Beyond music, Cathy dedicated her life to service. Since 2012, she served as CEO of You Have the Power, an organization committed to empowering victims of violent crime. She was also deeply involved in numerous boards and initiatives focused on domestic violence prevention, child advocacy, and community education—work that reflected her unwavering compassion and sense of responsibility.

Cathy was honored at the SOURCE Hall of Fame in 2018, inducted by Brenda Lee, with a special appearance by Tanya Tucker. The recognition celebrated not only her professional accomplishments, but also her leadership, generosity, and the doors she opened for women across the music industry.

Cathy is survived by her daughter Meagan Sullivan, five grandchildren, and a large extended family. Services will be held this spring at Christ the King Church in Nashville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to She Should Run or the Children’s Memory Garden at Centennial Park.

Cathy Gurley leaves behind a legacy of excellence, service, and heart. She will be deeply missed—and always remembered—by SOURCE and the entire Music City community.

Visit Cathy's Hall of Fame page at https://www.sourcenashville.org/award-inductee/cathy-gurley