Stephen F. Gregory

Stephen Foster Gregory, aged 78, passed away at home in Nashville, TN, on December 4, 2024.

Steve was born to parents Sarah Foster Gregory and Robert Cleve Gregory on May 13, 1946, in San Mateo, CA. He grew up in Chattanooga, TN, where after studying art at UT, Knoxville, he began his career at Loveman’s Department Store in Visual Merchandising. There he was able to pursue his passion for drawing and design. His thirty-year career in Visual continued as a sales representative for many companies furnishing Retail Stores with mannequins, store fixtures, and Holiday décor. Many good times and friendships came from those days.

Steve’s other passions included wire-haired terriers, spending time with family, and cooking. His skill at cooking was so fine-tuned that he could have been a chef! Friends and family enjoyed his many gourmet meals! His other passion was being Santa, for which he had a natural look and talent. He had a beautiful white beard, a twinkle in his eye, and a love for children. He was so convincing that many children considered him the “real Santa.” He was Santa for 12 years at Cheekwood and for Make-a-Wish Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bob, his nephew David, and his granddaughter Allyson. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Christine, his daughters Heather Anderson and Jessica Dodd, grandchildren Jakob Donnell (Amanda), Suzanne Donnell, Sarah, Becca and Jack Anderson, great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Henry Donnell, and niece Donna Savas (Ted).

Steve was truly a loving soul with a love of life. He was “All Heart.”

Those wishing to honor Steve with a memorial gift might consider Alive Hospice, Cheekwood, or Vanderbilt Health.

The family cordially invites relatives and friends to visit on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from twelve o'clock noon until the time of the Celebration of Life service at two o'clock in the afternoon at West Harpeth Funeral Home, 6962 Charlotte Pike in Nashville.