James L. Gregory
March 24, 1935—October 27, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James L. Gregory on October 27, 2024, at the age of 89. Jim was born on March 24, 1935, in Price, Utah, to Lee Roy and Bernice Gregory.
Jim spent his early years in Jiggs, Nevada and moved to Elko as a teenager with his mother and sisters, following the unexpected loss of his father in 1947. Jim graduated from Elko High School and spent a couple of semesters at the University of Nevada in Reno.
He returned to Elko from Reno and worked with his mother Bernice in several businesses, including a flower shop, liquor store, greenhouses, the opening of Builder's Mart and eventually starting G&T Construction. Jim spent more than 50 years in the Real Estate, Development and Property Management business, building and managing apartment complexes in almost every small town in Nevada. He loved working and intended to keep at it until his last day. He came very close. He finally retired, or as he would say "was dragged away", from his real estate business in 2023.
Jim had very few things he liked more than work, but he deeply loved his family and friends. Jim was a true patriot who loved his country, loved Elko and Lamoille Canyon. He was old school, hardworking, chivalrous, humble, honest, loyal and always more worried about the well-being of others than he was about himself. He endured his struggles while maintaining a dry, quick sense of humor, a gleaming smile and contagious laugh and never complained. Any time he was asked "how are you doing" his response was always "I am fine, I have just had too many birthdays!".
While he loved to worry about others and went out of his way to help everyone he could, Jim never liked to be the center of attention or have anyone dote over him. He reluctantly accepted help when he had no other choice, but he stubbornly tried to remain as independent as possible. Even though he kept most of his feelings inside, he deeply loved and appreciated those around him who supported him and cared for him.
He hated government and most politicians but loved to talk about politics. There was never any question where Jim stood on his beliefs. This passion for politics kept him busy after retiring. He frequently sent out email blasts at all hours of the day and night with his latest observations, disappointments and fears. Not all of his emails made sense, but they were always fun to read.
With Jim's passing we have lost a wonderful person who impacted so many lives. He was loved, respected, admired and even though he would deny it, a role model for how someone should lead their life. He always tried to do the right thing and expected others to do the same. His optimism, wit and love of life will desperately be missed.
Jim was predeceased by his mother and father, wife Holly Gregory and daughter Lynn Foster. He is survived by his ex-wife Sarah Smiraldo, their children Lori Gregory, Leah Gregory, Lee Gregory and his wife Bridget Gregory, Paul Gregory and Phillp Gregory, 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, his sisters Mae Steninger and Leah Brown and many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
A private service is planned for family on November 23, 2024, and a Celebration of Jim's Life will be held in Elko in the spring of 2025 where all friends and family of Jim will be invited to commemorate his life. Details on the planned celebration will follow.
