Robert 'Bob' Gregory

BETHEL COMMUNITY — Robert Lewis Gregory, 80, peacefully entered his Heavenly home on Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021 at John F. Keever Solace Center in Asheville.

Bob was born on Feb. 6, 1941, and was a son of the late Gilbert L. and Christine Downs Gregory. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Linda Ford Gregory; paternal grandparents, Noah and Decie Noland Gregory and maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Clercy Morrow Downs; and a brother, Harold Dean Gregory.

Bob retired from Champion International Papers in Canton and proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corp. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church.

Bob is survived by two daughters, Pamela G. Wingate, of Waynesville and Donna R. Gregory, of Clyde; grandson, Kaleb Daniel Wingate, of Waynesville; granddaughter, Danielle Roberts-Wingate (Lori), of Alabama; great-granddaughter, Lily Wingate, of Alabama; sister, Ina Lou Ray, of Virginia; niece, Rhonda Hurr (Rick); nephew Greg Gibson, both of Virginia; and nine first cousins.

A private graveside service will be held at Thickety Cemetery with the Revs. Dr. Bobby Rogers and Shawn Porter officiating with full military rites.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to John F. Keever Solace Center, 21 Belvedere Road, Asheville, NC 28803 or SARGE’S Animal Rescue Foundation, P.O. Box 854, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mr. Gregory has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.