Gregory Drake Waugh

Share your Memorial with Family & FriendsGregory (Greg) Drake Waugh, age 74, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025. He was born on January 28, 1951, in Lexington, Kentucky, to the late Isaac Daniel Waugh, Sr., and Clarice Williams Waugh.Greg is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah (Debbie) Grey Waugh of Cocoa, Florida; his stepsons, Darin Leach and his son, Colin Leach of Lexington, Kentucky; his stepson, Charles Leach of Kentucky; Debbie's son George Joseph Walsh III and his son Braxton Joseph Walsh (residing in Japan); and Liam Mason Walsh of Schaumburg, IL, son of the late Jeffrey Walsh. He is also survived by his brother, Isaac D. Waugh, Jr. (Tommie Sue) of Georgetown, Texas, and stepsister, Betty Brisbay of Lexington, Kentucky.He was preceded in death by his first wife, Diane Leach Waugh of Merritt Island, Florida; his sister, Patricia Minkus McCain of Titusville, Florida; his stepbrother, Walter Waugh; and his stepsister, Cornelia Koch.Greg proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps beginning in 1969, working in the communications division at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station in Irvine, California. Following his military service, he explored a variety of career paths-earning qualifications as a master electrician, studying law enforcement at Eastern Kentucky University, and serving as a Deputy Sheriff for ten years in Lexington, Kentucky. Later, he earned a Certificate of Completion from the Academy of Cosmetology in Florida and embraced a new chapter as a business owner.For 33 years, Greg was the proud proprietor of Gregory's Hair Studio in Merritt Island, Florida, where he was known for his charm, sharp wit, and unwavering dedication to his clients. His warmth, humor, and genuine care made him a favorite among those who walked through his doors.Greg was a man of many interests. In his younger years, he was an avid motorcycle enthusiast. He had a keen interest in horse racing, especially at Keeneland in his hometown of Lexington. Greg also enjoyed taking on do-it-yourself projects around the house-meticulously researching, planning, and executing each task with pride and precision.Known for his unique habits and preferences, Greg famously added Wish-Bone salad dressing to nearly every meal. A creature of routine, he could always be found in his signature black dress pants and shirt, and he ran his salon with an old-school style that suited him just fine.He shared a special bond with many of his long-time clients and loyal colleagues, including Scott Woodman, Carol Sasso, Rachel Johnson, and Natalia Nugent, all of whom he counted as friends.Greg will be remembered for his generous spirit, thoughtful nature, and the joy he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, clients, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.