James “Jim” Lowell Gregory, 81, of Decatur, Alabama, beloved father, grandfather, and loyal friend to many passed away peacefully in Decatur on July 10, 2024. He was born on December 9, 1942, in Oneonta, Alabama, to Lowell and Julia Hill Gregory.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Martha Gregory, his first wife, Mary Gregory and their children, Rebecca Gregory Segovia (married to Ferris Segovia) of Dallas, TX and Matthew Gregory (married to Sarah Gregory) of Saint Simons Island, GA, and his grandchildren, Gabriela, Sofia, and Viviana Segovia, and Gabriela Garza. He also leaves behind his cherished grand pups, Buster and Roscoe. He is also survived by his brother, Jody Gregory (wife Julia of Leesburg, SC). Jim was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Gregory Gamble and her husband, Lanny Gamble (Tuscaloosa, AL), who both went to be with Jesus last year.
Jim attended Auburn University, graduating with the class of 1966. During his college years, he also joined the US Air Force Reserves. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start several banks, including First Alabama Bank in Cullman, AL. Rock Hill National Bank in Rock Hill, SC, and First American Bank in Decatur, Alabama. He later pursued a successful career in consulting and real estate. Jim was a friend and mentor to many, always eager to help others start their own businesses through the Decatur Business Incubator. His real estate endeavors included developing parts of the Point Mallard subdivisions and the town and patio homes community of Park Place in southeast Decatur.
Jim had a passion for tennis, collectable cars, and his coffee club. He enjoyed exploring different parts of the US (especially the beaches), listening to music, and had an appreciation for the arts. He was active in Rotary International, the Auburn Alumni Association, and was a generous supporter of several local charities. Jim was a member of First United Methodist Church in Decatur, AL.
Jim was gregarious and never met a stranger. He was an avid Auburn fan and always coached his Tigers from his chair. He was generous with his time and always willing to help others. He adored his grandkids and grandpups immensely. He was best known for his great sense of humor and giving specific directions on exactly how he wanted things done. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 11 AM at First United Methodist Church of Decatur, with visitation before beginning at 10 AM. He will be laid to rest in Oneonta, Alabama, near his family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First Methodist Church, Neighborhood Christian Center, or Committee on Church Cooperation, all located in Decatur, AL.
