Gregory Jerome French

Gregory Jerome French, a loving husband, devoted stepfather, proud grandfather, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 61.

Born on December 11, 1963, in Huntington Beach, California, Greg was the beloved son of Dorris Jones and Jerome French. He grew up on the beautiful coastline of Solana Beach, California, alongside his three sisters. Raised with the ocean as his backyard, Greg’s early life was filled with outdoor activities, picnics, and frequent trips to the beach, which instilled in him a lifelong love for the water and nature. He was an active athlete at Torrey Pines High School, where he enjoyed playing both baseball and football. Greg remained a resident of the sunny coastal North County San Diego area until he was 58.

In 1992, Greg married the love of his life, Carla French. For 33 wonderful years, they were inseparable companions, building a life together that was rich in travel, local adventures, and unwavering partnership. Together, they raised Carla’s two children, Kristi and Jason, and were later blessed with two beloved grandchildren, Tyler and Wyatt.

Greg and Carla were avid travelers. They cherished their trips to the Colorado River and Lake Havasu, NV, which were among their favorite retreats. Their adventures also often took them to Cabo San Lucas, Palm Springs, California, and Big Bear, California. When they weren’t exploring, they could be found together locally: out on a boat, grilling, enjoying local music or festivals, or simply taking a leisurely walk.

Greg had a deep passion for life and his hobbies reflected his active spirit. He loved boating and the excitement of desert activities like dirt bike riding and camping. He was a dedicated fan of his home teams, the Padres and the Chargers, and any day a game was on, he woke up with an excited heart ready to cheer them on. Greg had a huge heart for all animals, especially dogs, and was a loving pet owner throughout his life.

Following Carla’s retirement, they embarked on a new chapter, purchasing their retirement home in Seneca, South Carolina. It was there, close to the beautiful lakes, that they spent their final years together, enjoying the peaceful waters that continued to be their favorite pastime.

Greg’s warmth, adventurous spirit, and enormous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carla French; his stepchildren, Kristi and Jason; and his grandchildren, Tyler and Wyatt.