Nicholas (Nick) Everett Shurley, 16-year-old son of Marvin and Wanda Shurley of Sonora, Texas, died early Sunday morning, January 30, 2005, from injuries received in an automobile accident. It is with great sorrow we announce our loss.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. February 2, 2005, at the Sonora High School gymnasium with graveside services following at the Sonora Cemetery.

He is survived by his parents; two brothers, Jon Cody Gann and wife Heather of San Angelo, Texas; Kevin Gann and wife Veronica of Elgin, Texas; and one sister Amy Gann of Harare, Zimbabwe; one niece and three nephews. He is also survived by his great grandmother Inez Motes Royster of Laurens, South Carolina, grandmother Patsy Hutcherson of Taylor, Texas and grandfather Henry H. Hutcherson of Milano, Texas, along with numerous aunts and uncles, cousins.

Nick was born October 7, 1988, in San Angelo, Texas. While young in years Nick was a brilliant young man who was wise beyond his years. One of God's brightest stars has fallen from the sky. Throughout his young life Nick reached out to others, acting as a friend and mentor to many of his fellow students at Sonora High School. He was referred to by many of them as "fact man" or the "walking dictionary". Scientific research projects, astronomy, world cultures and theology were just some of his interests. A brilliant and unique young man, Nick was able to call as friends persons ranging from 8 to 80 years of age. His outgoing nature developed early on in life and continued to be a strong point of his personality up to his passing.

Perhaps the Lord needed a few answers as well and called Nick along to help him. These things we will never know. He will be missed by all of us who knew and loved him.