Albert "Al" Hurd

Albert Edward Hurd, 85, of Bellaire, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Meadowbrook Medical Care Facility in Bellaire with his beloved wife at his side. He was born on December 12, 1940, in Goodrich, MI, the son of Edward and Marjorie (Campbell) Hurd.

Al graduated from Davison High School in 1958 and went on to attend Michigan State University for his undergraduate degree. On July 17, 1961, in Davison, Albert married the love of his life, Julie (Borromey) Hurd. Together, they moved to Chicago where Al attended the University of Chicago and the Chicago Theological Seminary where he obtained a Master of Divinity.

Al enjoyed a wonderful 30+ year career with the American Theological Libraries and Publishing where he focused on preserving rare books in religion. He also converted the religion index into a database. He worked with the Library of Congress and other major theological libraries as well. Al had a great interest in religion and worked tirelessly to protect books from the past as well as update systems so generations to come can continue to learn about religion and its’ importance in society.

In 2005, Al and Julie retired to a home in Bellaire, and Al spent every moment he could outside tending to the many gardens scattered around the house. He was an avid reader who was always yearning for knowledge; he leaves behind a vast collection of books he acquired over the years. Al also enjoyed building rustic furniture in his garage using many different native types of wood making sure to highlight the beauty of each. He was a lover of animals owning several cats in his lifetime, as well as Scottish Terriers which he showed many times.

Al is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Julie Hurd; two brothers, David (Ramona) Hurd, and Stephen (Dawn) Hurd; two sisters, Margaret Green, and Catherine (James) Moore; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and four sisters, Barbara Lindts, Florence Carnasis, Nancy Winters, and Carolyn (Leon) Fras.

A celebration of Al’s life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grass River Natural Area, PO Box 231, Bellaire, MI 49615, or online at https://www.grassriver.org/donate-today.html

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com