Eleanor Gregory

Eleanor Anna H. Gregory VIRGINIA BEACH - Jesus tenderly called Eleanor Anna Hartbarger Gregory home when on Dec. 16, 2009, she slipped quietly from this world to join a choir of angels waiting for her. She heard God whisper, "thank you my good and faithful servant." Eleanor was 90-years-old and is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, the Rev. William F. Gregory of Virginia Beach. In her heavenly home she meets her parents and three siblings, leaving two here on earth sister, Martha Drumheller and brother, Cornelius Hartbarger. Bill and Eleanor had three children: Mary Louise Byron and husband Dean, William C. Gregory and wife Linda, Halbert J. Gregory and wife Karen. Eleanor has six grandchildren, Anna Miller, Laura Livingston, Stuart Gregory, and Jordan, Hunter, and Riley Gregory. She also leaves behind seven beloved great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Eleanor was born in Clifton Forge, Va., and was a lifelong resident of Norfolk. In addition to being a devoted mother and grandmother, Eleanor served the Lord alongside her husband Bill at Somme Avenue Christian Church as church music director for 47 years. Eleanor not only led worship at Somme Avenue, but she taught God's word as a Sunday school teacher for those many years as well. Countless lives were touched by her love and the example she set. She was a member of Somme Avenue Christian Church, Norfolk, from 1955 to 2002 when upon retirement she and Bill were members of Laurel Avenue Church of Christ in Chesapeake. She was also active as a member of the Norview Chapter of the Eastern Star. A viewing will be held Saturday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Norfolk. Pastors Dean and Anna Miller will perform a graveside service at 11 a.m. The family wishes to thank the staff of Brighton Gardens for caring for Mom for the last 10 months. Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, is in charge. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.woodlawngroup.com.