Lewis Gregory

Indianapolis, Indiana – Lewis “Tennessee” Gregory, 86, passed away peacefully at home in the company of his family on August 15, 2025. His kind nature and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Lewis was born on September 5, 1938, to parents Elbert & Hattie (Cherry) Gregory in Robertson County, Tennessee. A hard worker, even when he was young, Lewis helped on the family farm while attending school. Tennessee always remembered that farm fondly, especially the mules he took care of. However, most importantly, he met Velma, the love of his life, while attending high school. They were married in 1958 and celebrated 62 years of marriage before her passing in 2020.

Together they moved to Indiana, with Tennessee taking a job at Ford Motor Company where he ended up working for 32 years before his retirement. He also was a proud member of United Autoworkers 1111 and Southeastern Church of Christ, where he volunteered at their food pantry.

A true mechanic at heart, even in his down time, Tennessee loved to work on cars. Whether that was repairing them, upgrading them, or even painting them.

In addition to his parents, Tennessee is preceded in death by his beloved Velma, his son Terry Lewis Gregory; siblings Albert Gregory, Clarence Gregory, David Gregory, Neeley Denning, Myrtle Halcomb, and Velma Newkirk; son-in-law Ray Wilson; as well as granddaughter Tonya Wilson.

He is survived by daughter Teresa Gayle Wilson, grandchildren Thomas Wilson (Megan), Sean Wilson (Jessica), Jeremy Gregory (Michelle), Amy Stewart (Brian), Levi Gregory, and Chad Gregory, as well as 8 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 11 – 1 pm at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East (10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46229) with funeral services following at 1 pm. Burial will be at Washington Park East Cemetery following services.