James Gulley Charlotte NC Obituary, Motion Fitness Trainer Has Passed Away
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — James Gulley of Charlotte, North Carolina, has died, leaving behind a grieving family, friends, teammates, colleagues and members of the fitness and athletic communities who knew him as a devoted father, talented soccer player, dedicated athlete and, above all, a kind and genuine person.
News of Gulley’s passing was shared by Motion Fitness, where he was remembered as a friend, teammate and forever member of the MOTION family. The organization described James as an “incredible soul” whose infectious smile and positive presence made the people around him better.
James was known for his wide-ranging athletic interests and accomplishments. He played soccer professionally, including a period with Karlslunds IF in Örebro, Sweden, from July to October 2017. He later continued his football career in Charlotte, where he was associated with The World beginning in October 2017.
His passion for athletic performance extended well beyond soccer. James was an avid runner and an accomplished HYROX and hybrid athlete, dedicating himself to the demanding combination of strength, endurance and conditioning required by the sport. He was also a trainer at Barry’s in Charlotte, beginning in August 2019.
For those who trained alongside him or knew him through the fitness community, James’ athletic abilities were only one part of what made him memorable. Motion Fitness emphasized that while he was a father, son, friend and gifted athlete, he was, more importantly, a wonderful human being.
“If you knew James, you knew his smile,” the organization wrote. “You knew his energy. You knew the kindness and positivity he brought into a room.”
That warmth left a lasting impression on the people around him. His friends and teammates remembered someone whose presence could lift others and whose enthusiasm created connections that extended beyond the gym, the soccer field and athletic competition.
James’ educational journey included studies in Management Information Systems at the University of Tulsa, where he attended from August 2010 through May 2013. He had previously attended Clinton High School during the 2010 school year.
His passing has been particularly difficult for the MOTION community, which has expressed its support for James’ son, family, friends and everyone whose life he touched. The organization said it planned to come together in the days following his death to honor his memory and support those closest to him.
Motion Fitness also announced the creation of a GoFundMe campaign to assist James’ family and son, help with funeral services and honor the impact he made on the community. Supporters were encouraged to contribute if they were able, share the fundraiser or simply keep his loved ones in their thoughts.
In its tribute, Motion Fitness offered a broader message inspired by James’ passing: life can be difficult, and people do not always know what others may be carrying. The community encouraged everyone to show kindness, check on loved ones and seek help when struggling.
James Gulley leaves behind memories defined by his smile, athletic passion, generosity and the relationships he built throughout his life.
To those who knew him, he was much more than a soccer player, runner, trainer or HYROX athlete. He was a father, friend, teammate and cherished member of a community that will continue to feel his absence.
“James, we love you. We will miss you more than words can say,” Motion Fitness wrote. “Rest easy, brother.”
