Lewis Harvey Gregory, 84, of Centralia passed away Thursday, January 6, 2022, at SSM Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon. He was born on December 19, 1937, the son of George E. and Eleanor (Crouch) Gregory in Bluford. He married his sweetheart, Judith Osborn on October 14, 1957, in Mt. Vernon and she survives in Centralia.
Along with his wife of 64 years, Judith “Judy” Gregory, survivors include his beloved family, son, Steven Mark Gregory of Vincennes, Indiana; brother, George “Butch” Clark Gregory and wife Mary of Missouri; sisters, Georgia E. Peterson, and husband Reeve of San Diego, California, and Mary Jo Buchanan and husband Terry of Mt. Vernon; brother-in-law Don Osborn of Casey; uncle, Bill Crouch; aunt, Ruth Ann Dulaney; several nieces, cousins, and extended family.
Lewis was preceded in death by his parents, George and Eleanor Gregory.
Lewis was a proud graduate of Bluford High School. Mr. Gregory then served his country with honor in the United States Army. He was a loyal employee of IC Railroad as an engineer, dedicating 40 plus years of service until his retirement. He was a faithful member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Jefferson County, attended the Westside Missionary Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon, and attended the First Church of the Nazarene in Centralia. Lewis was a member of the Centralia American Legion Post 446. He had amazing musical abilities and loved old-time music, especially bluegrass. Lewis played guitar and appreciated the jam sessions he had with his local group of fellow musicians. He created a sanctuary for the many varieties of birds that visited his backyard by providing food and shelter for his winged visitors. He also enjoyed the meals and fellowship at Project Bread Golden Age Senior Center. Lewis instilled in those who knew him, the importance of loving of others and treating them with respect. He was a model for slowing down and taking time to notice the beauty in all the little things in life, and his family and friends will do their best to continue his legacy of generosity and kindness.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia with Pastor Tim Mondy officiating. Interment will follow at Old Shiloh Cemetery in Jefferson County where Military Rites will be accorded by Centralia VFW Post 2055 American Legion Post 446. Friends are welcome to a visitation time from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 14, 2022, and 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Lewis’ honor to the Salvation Army, First Church of the Nazarene, and the Baptist Children’s Home in Carmi. Online condolence and memories of Lewis may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Lewis Gregory with arrangements.
