Joseph Martin "Marty" Gregory

Joseph Martin “Marty” Gregory, age 73, passed away on April 12, 2024 surrounded by family. Born in Nashville on August 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Dr. George D. Gregory and Lillene Overby Gregory.
Marty excelled academically, becoming the Valedictorian of the last graduating class at Howard High School in 1969. His thirst for knowledge led him to graduate Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors of Science from Trevecca Nazarene University in 1974. 
Throughout his career, Marty touched countless lives. He shared his passion for learning as a teacher at Pioneer Christian Academy and the Tennessee School for the Blind. He also worked in Medical Research at Meharry Medical College and at the IRS as a collections agent. He found a 37-year career with the State of TN as an Environmental Specialist 3 with the EPA until his well-deserved retirement. 
Beyond his professional endeavors, Marty found joy in various pursuits. As a HAM Radio operator and member of the Mid Cumberland Archeological Society, he delved into his interests with enthusiasm. He was also a Freemason at West Nashville Phoenix Lodge #131, a Shriner with the Al Menah Shrine Temple, and a York Rite Mason.  Marty had an appreciation for Art History and was a talented painter.
A man of unwavering faith, Marty was a beloved member of Bellshire United Methodist Church. He shared God's word thought his life and taught Sunday School for several years.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Mary Dillard Gregory, daughter Rebekah (Joe) Anderson, grandson Joseph Roger Gregory Anderson 3rd and his beloved companion dog Duchess. His sisters Judy (Roger, with whom he shared a special bond) Armes, and Maggie (Kent) Kersten,  cousin Linda Overby Freeman and brother-in-law Andrew (Linda) Dillard as well as many nieces and nephews. 
As family and friends gather to honor Marty's memory, visitation services will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a Masonic Evergreen Service at 7:00 PM, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville. A Celebration of Life officiated by Dr. Hubert Cunningham will follow on Thursday, April 18th at 11:00 AM at the same location.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Marty’s memory to Alive Hospice (Patterson St. Nashville, TN) and the Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals.