Gurney Routh, Jr.

Gurney Edison Routh, Jr., 79, of Sophia, went to his heavenly home on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Randolph Health in Asheboro.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Mark Wilburn officiating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., prior to the service, at Ridge Funeral Home.

Born December 11, 1945, in Asheboro, Gurney was the son of the late Gurney Edison Routh, Sr., and Helen Pauline Harper Routh. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Linda Ingold Routh.

Routh was the former owner and operator of Gurney’s Muffler, where he earned admiration for his custom work, craftsmanship, and reputation for quality. He built lasting relationships with customers and was widely respected for his work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Beyond his business, Gurney was a lifelong racer and a legend at Caraway Speedway, where he was voted one of the Top 50 Drivers of All Time. Over his career, he captured more than 100 victories at Caraway, Ace Speedway, Hickory, and Myrtle Beach, along with six championships at the Asheboro track. He competed for more than 30 years in the Limited Sportsman and Late Model Sportsman divisions and was known best for his iconic black and gold #00. In 2019, his outstanding career was honored with induction into the Caraway Speedway Wall of Fame.

Those who knew Gurney will remember a man who lived life on his own terms. A simple man at heart, he was determined and strong-willed, standing firmly in his beliefs, yet he balanced that edge with humor—always ready to joke around and had a nickname for nearly everyone he knew. Above all, he deeply loved his family and friends, showing that love in his own unique way. His legacy will live on in the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind.

Gurney is survived by his sons, Lynn Routh (Shannon) of Sophia, Jimmy Routh of Asheboro; daughter, Lisa Routh (Jeff) of Sophia; sister, Peggy Routh Newton of Asheboro; and grandchildren, Camryn Yates (Riley), Hunter Routh, Peyton Routh, Justin Kearns, and Tyler Kearns.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the National Kidney Foundation.

The family would like to thank the staff of Randolph Health for their compassionate care, kindness, and support.