John Shurley facts for kids

Sir John Shurley (who passed away on August 3, 1527) was an English nobleman. He held an important financial job called the Cofferer to the King during the time of Henry VIII.

Who Was Sir John Shurley?

Sir John Shurley was a key person in the royal household. He helped manage the King's money and expenses. His main role was to look after the royal kitchen's finances.

Working for the King

As the King's Cofferer, Sir John was like the chief accountant for the royal household. He made sure that all the daily costs, especially for the kitchen, were paid. This was a very important job in the King's court.

His Family and Home

Sir John Shurley was married twice. His first wife was Parnell Grandford, and his second was Margery Goring. He had at least five children: Edward, John, William, Bridget, and Joanne.

The Shurley family eventually made Isfield in East Sussex their main home. Sir John and many of his family members are buried at Isfield Church. An old message on his tomb says he was the "chief clerk of the kitchen" for King Henry VIII.

Where Did the Shurley Name Come From?

The family name "Shurley" likely came from a place called Shurley Manor in Herefordshire. Today, the name is often spelled "Shirley." Sir John's father was Roger Shurley from Presteign in Radnorshire, Wales. His mother was the daughter of William Walker, also from Presteign.

A Unique Way of Working

People described Sir John as having his "own unique way" of doing his job. For example, he would sometimes leave the King's Court during the summer. He would go back to his home in Isfield. Some people thought this was not a good example for his staff.

Famous Family Members

Sir John Shurley had two well-known great-grandsons. One was Sir John Shurley, who became a politician and a Member of Parliament. His brother was Sir George Shurley, who became the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland.