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Greg Block Obituary

Greg Block, an entrepreneur who sold a successful home textile company in his early 40s to focus on a way to give back to the community, died Aug. 14, 2020. He was 54.

Block created First Step Staffing. It is an Atlanta-based non-profit that places the homeless, those with criminal records, struggling veterans and others with employment barriers in jobs.

Block was also a community activist, dedicated athlete and a musician.

He's survived by wife Monica, children Will, Carole Anne and Jack, his mother, Nadine Block, and two brothers.

A private family memorial is planned, with a more public celebration of his life coming next year.

Read more about Greg Block on ajc.com
Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Aug. 20, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Greg Block

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14 Entries

Charles Coleman

April 18, 2021

I'm saddened to hear the news of Greg's passing. I knew him in college, when we played in a band together. Were were kind of folky power-pop guys, and Greg's powerful and energetic drumming and his punk roots were a real game changer. That band had a lot of character, and Greg was an essential reason why.

We had not stayed in touch, and I did not know about his work with the non-profit staffing and its outreach to at risk people. That is really important and innovative, and I am not surprised to read that he advanced this initiative with passion and creativity and drive.

I want to give my deepest condolences to Greg's family, friends, and colleagues.

Deborah Levine

March 21, 2021

I met Greg through work and our daughter, Lizzy. Greg was such an interesting, talented, passionate, wickedly smart, driven person. I really enjoyed my friendship with Greg so much and admired his ability create and give back with such intensity and passion. He was such a good person and friend, and he will be missed.

Saul Gitlin

November 11, 2020

I worked for Greg and his brothers 25 years ago and have not seen him since. I remember him as a smart, strategic, and fair professional, full of entrepreneurial insight and energy, and I was moved to read that he used his success and wealth to benefit the less fortunate. Please accept my deepest condolences for his tragic passing at such a young age!

nadine block

September 1, 2020

He was a wonderful human being who could say that he did all he could to make the world better than he found it. His Mom

August 24, 2020

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy in behalf of the Block family and friends during this time of bereavement. May you find peace in God who brings comfort to all those who mourn.

Bruce C Gunter

August 22, 2020

I remember meeting him for the first time at our offices to discuss affordable housing, and coming away thinking i'd never met anyone like that in the world of nonprofits, hard nosed and driven as he was. At the time, i did not know what he had in mind. What he eventually created has made a huge difference. My condolences to you, Monica and the kids.

Rich Walters

August 21, 2020

He was a fighter. I admire him for that. God Bless you Greg. I’m sure there will be a project for you up there.

Bryan Furse

August 21, 2020

Over the years I wanted to find a way to be a greater friend to him, but we simply lived in two different worlds and I could never bridge the gap.

In fact, we were just recently talking in depth about this. I am so in shock right now and so deeply hurting that I will never have the chance. I will always cherish every golden moment I had with him and forever wish I’d known how to be a better friend in his times of need.

Leigh Shelor

August 21, 2020

What an amazing testament. I am sending many prayers, and please know I will always be here for your family.
Leigh Shelor, School Counselor for the WA class of 2023

Charles D Vincent

August 21, 2020

To you and your family,Thanks for a life well spent.Not many people take the time to look at themselves and ask the truth.In the end it's the truth that makes us free.Again my condolences to your family.I wish I could have meet you.The love you gave is a rare one now go and rest brother and make a joyful peace.

Vera Irions

August 20, 2020

Monica , Please accept my heart felt sympathy and know that you and Gregs family are in my prayers and heavy on my heart . Such a young powerful and inspirational man has been lost and just know that the backbone of you and of his family is what helped keep him upright throughout this battle. Sending My Love , V

Anna Prasinou

August 20, 2020

My deepest condolences to Monica and the family!! Greg was an exceptional human being and he will be missed by many! My thoughts are with his family!!

Allison Englert

August 20, 2020

My heart goes out to the Will, Carole Anne, Jack, Monica, and family. I pray for comfort and peace during this time of sadness.

Scott V

August 20, 2020

To the family of Greg Block, my deepest and most sincere condolences. I can't begin to fathom the loss of someone who was not just a son, a brother, a father, a husband or friend, but someone who was and still is a phenomenal example of how we should all live our lives. Thank you for sharing him, and his story, with us. May the grace of God bring you peace and blessings during this time of loss.

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