Maurice Gregory Sr.
Major (Ret) Maurice DuBois Gregory, Sr.
Sunrise April 3, 1930
Sunset February 15, 2021
Dad was a decent man. He was a reliable husband. He was a providing father. He was a steadfast and faithful steward. Maj Gregory’s well-lived life is proof that better decisions produce better outcomes.
Dad was born in Benham, KY. He was the son of a coal miner and teacher. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and read his Bible regularly. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14, was Dad’s favorite scripture.
He graduated from Tennessee State University in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree.
He and his wife Josephine married and joined the US Army. There he became a jumpmaster making over 100 parachute jumps. Then they traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. On one occasion they attended a ball hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg. Dad was also stationed in West Germany during the construction of the Berlin Wall. In 1966, he liked to say, he quit smoking during his first tour in Viet Nam; then he returned in 1969 to complete the last 12 of his 24 months in combat. At the end of each tour he was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. Ultimately, though he started at the rank of E-1, private, he achieved field grade as a line officer and retired from the United States Army at the rank of Major.
After retiring from the Army, Dad returned to the Federal workforce as a letter carrier; he earned several safe driving awards and other commendations before retiring after 17 years.
Dad was an active deacon at Jackson Street Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years; he had to decrease attendance because of declining health.
He supported and encouraged his three children to complete studies at Meharry Medical College, and became the proud father of three health care professionals.
On his 90th birthday he said he felt, “Young.” He is preceded in his heavenly journey by his wife of 60 years.
He is survived by his daughter, his sons, 6 grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces who are thankful for the privilege of knowing him during his earthly journey.