House adopts resolution mourning Rep. Matthew R. Gurgley

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives on June 23 unanimously adopted House Resolution 268 mourning the death of the late Representative Matthew R. Gurgley of McKeesport, Allegheny County, and observed a moment of silence with members of Gurgley’s family in the chamber.

The resolution recognizes Gurgley’s service to his community and the legislature, noting his work as a McKeesport city official and his election to the House in a February 2023 special election. It lists committee assignments and two bills enacted during his term.

Speaker (name not specified on the record) opened the floor remarks by welcoming Gurgley’s family, including his wife, Holly, and their sons, and asked the House to consider the resolution honoring him. The clerk then read the full text of House Resolution 268 (Printer’s No. 1971), which memorialized Gurgley’s public service and noted that the flag of Pennsylvania would fly at half-staff until his interment.

Representative Bradford, the majority floor leader, told colleagues: “He was a servant leader and a public servant for the community of McKeesport. He was defined by his community, his love of family, and his service to both.” Representative Jesse Topper, the minority floor leader, offered condolences on behalf of his caucus and thanked Gurgley’s family for sharing him with the legislature.

The resolution was agreed to and “unanimously adopted,” and members and guests were invited to rise for a moment of silence as a mark of respect. The clerk reported that a quorum was present earlier in the session.

The House’s resolution lists biographical and service details included in the text read on the floor: Gurgley’s dates of service (02/21/2023–01/19/2025), his prior work as a McKeesport Area School District business manager and city administrator, committee assignments (Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; Game and Fisheries; Insurance; Liquor Control), and two enacted measures noted in the resolution.