Search by Name

Search by Name

Gregory Block Obituary

Block, Gregory
Gregory Block— social entrepreneur and philanthropist, died August 14 in Atlanta, Georgia at the age of 54. He was the CEO and owner of American Pacific Enterprises, a successful home textiles firm, prior to turning to philanthropy with the founding of First Step Staffing in 2007 in Atlanta. First Step is a non-profit organization that provides a path out of homelessness by getting jobs for those who are often rejected when seeking employment like those experiencing homelessness, returning citizens, and veterans. It is the largest non-profit staffing agency for homeless people in the U.S., connecting thousands to employment each year. First Step Staffing received many awards including having its model cited as a best practice by the US Interagency Council on Homelessness. Greg was the recipient of the Impact Leaders Award from Business to Business Magazine, a Grand Innovator Award by United Way of Greater Atlanta, the Humanitarian Award from the Georgia Alliance to End Homelessness, and the Turner Downtown Community Leadership Award. While he was born in Chicago, Illinois, he spent his young years in Worthington, Ohio. He is a graduate of Columbus Academy and Emory University. Greg was an active member with the Young President's Organization. His courage and tenacity was demonstrated in his reaction to a diagnosis of stage 4 non-smoking lung cancer at age 47. Through almost seven years of treatment until his death, he persevered in his work helping homeless people, remaining Board Chair of First Step Staffing and expanding the model in five cities outside of Atlanta. No matter what physical challenges he faced, he continued to have hope and a generous heart. He told his family, "I'll quit fighting when the lights go out." Greg leaves behind his loving wife, Monica; and three children, Will, CaroleAnne and Jack. He leaves brothers, Steve Block (Dana) and Jeff Block (Karen); nephews and nieces; and his mother, Nadine Block. Greg's grandparents Sarah and Franklin Ludwig and Eli and Lillian Block and his father, Jared Block preceded him in death.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Aug. 22 to Aug. 23, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Block

Sponsored by The Columbus Dispatch.

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

John Bosse

August 30, 2020

Dear Nadine,

No words can console the loss of a child, but knowing that his life was such a great force for good has to be a source of comfort. Our friendship goes back to graduate school, and it was then that I remember meeting your three boys, and the energy and curiosity that they exhibited then. All those wonderful memories of Greg from youth to adulthood will bring feelings of joy, but also the lingering feelings of loss. I know this all too well having lost my youngest daughter, Brooke, in April 2019. We send our love and our friendship to you and your family.
John & Elaine Bosse

Steve

August 26, 2020

The best friend any man could ever ask for. Tenaciously loyal, unquestioned love.
Miss you my brother-
SHOF

Joe

August 23, 2020

Greg was a force to be reckoned with. He took on the homelessness and made a difference in the lives of thousands across the country. Not to mention he created thousands of jobs contributing to our economy. Finally and most importantly, Greg gave these unlucky men and women a second chance, thereby restoring their sense of dignity and purpose. Love you buddy. JLG

Simone Taylor

August 23, 2020

No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. However, take comfort in knowing God is with you and your family lean on him in your time of need & remember,

Tracey

August 23, 2020

Deepest sympathy to the family of Greg Block.
What an honor that he was from the Columbus, Ohio area.
Thanks for assisting the homeless.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in Gregory Block's name

Memorial Events
for Gregory Block

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Gregory's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Gregory Block's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more