Bobby Sterlie Gregory Obituary May 22, 2026 | Memphis, TN
Bobby Sterlie Gregory, 79, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Bobby Sterlie Gregory, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and respected member of the Memphis community, entered into eternal rest on May 22, 2026, surrounded by his family. Known for his strong work ethic, warm personality, quick wit, and generous heart, Bobby lived a life marked by integrity, faith, and deep commitment to his family and friends. He will be remembered as a man who loved deeply, worked honestly, and always made time for those he cared about.
A Life Well Lived
Bobby Sterlie Gregory was born on November 8, 1946, in Memphis, Tennessee. Raised in a hardworking family in the Whitehaven area, he learned early the values of responsibility, honesty, and respect. He graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1964 and proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1969. His military service shaped his character and instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and patriotism.
After his honorable discharge, Bobby built a successful career in the transportation and logistics industry. For over 40 years, he worked with dedication for major companies in the Memphis area, eventually becoming a senior fleet manager. Colleagues remembered him as a fair and knowledgeable leader who mentored many and always emphasized safety, hard work, and doing things the right way. He retired in 2012 but remained active in local veterans’ groups and enjoyed helping friends with vehicle repairs and projects.
Bobby was a longtime faithful member of First Baptist Church of Whitehaven, where he served as a deacon and volunteered with the men’s ministry. He loved fishing at Mississippi River oxbows, coaching his children’s baseball teams, restoring classic cars, and cheering for the Memphis Tigers and Grizzlies. Family barbecues, weekend fishing trips, and holiday gatherings were among his greatest joys.
Surviving Family Members
Bobby is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Barbara Jean (Thompson) Gregory of Memphis; his children: son Robert “Rob” Sterlie Gregory Jr. (Michelle) of Southaven, Mississippi, and daughter Kimberly (Scott) Thompson of Germantown, Tennessee; his cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Madison, and Ethan Gregory, and Abigail and Jackson Thompson; and many dear siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Evelyn Gregory, and his brother, James Michael Gregory.
Funeral Details and Arrangements
A Celebration of Life service for Bobby Sterlie Gregory will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Whitehaven in Memphis, with Pastor David Reynolds officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 26, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Memphis Funeral Home – Whitehaven Chapel.
Interment with military honors will follow at Memphis National Cemetery. Pallbearers will include his son, son-in-law, and grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to First Baptist Church of Whitehaven or to the Wounded Warrior Project in Bobby’s honor.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Bobby Sterlie Gregory was a man of quiet strength and steadfast love. He never sought the spotlight, yet his presence was deeply felt by everyone who knew him. As a husband, he was loyal and supportive. As a father and grandfather, he was patient, encouraging, and always ready with a story or a helpful hand. He taught his family the importance of hard work, keeping your word, and treating others with respect.
From his years of service in the Air Force to building a successful career and raising a loving family, Bobby lived with purpose and integrity. His warm laugh, steady advice, and strong hugs brought comfort and joy to those around him. He cherished his marriage to Barbara, his faith in God, and the simple pleasures of life — sunrise fishing trips, backyard barbecues, and time spent with his grandchildren.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort knowing Bobby has gone home to his Heavenly Father, reunited with loved ones who preceded him. His legacy of faith, family, and faithful service will continue to guide and inspire his loved ones for generations to come.
Condolences and Guestbook
The Gregory family warmly invites relatives, friends, colleagues, and community members to share memories, stories, and words of comfort in the guestbook below. These tributes will provide great strength and encouragement during this time of loss.
