Rickey Lee Gregory, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on February 8, 2026.  Rickey was born on July 11, 1948 in Harnett County, NC to the late Clifton Lee Gregory and the late Rachel Altman Gregory.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Mickey Gregory; his children, Kelli Willoughby (Rex) of Chapel Hill and Erick Gregory (Brittany) of Ocean Isle Beach; five grandchildren: Ty, Leah, Reese, Christian and John; his brother-in-law, Steve Nobles (Kathy); his lifelong friend, Wayne Adams (Cynthia); and many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched.

For over 41 years, Rickey was a Plant Protection Specialist for the NC Department of Agriculture.  He traveled to every county in the state where he formed lasting friendships.

He was a proud Scottish Rite Mason and Shriner for more than 50 years, serving as Past Master of St. Albans Lodge. This commitment reflected his desire to help others. He was loved by all who knew him. His heartwarming smile, humility, and fighting spirit will be remembered and deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 1002 N. Chestnut Street in Lumberton with Eva Ruth officiating. A visiting time with family will follow the service in the church Fellowship Hall.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the hospice caregivers from Lower Cape Fear LifeCare for their exceptional care and compassion. We especially are grateful for Ashley, Danielle, Carolyn and Lori.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Shriners Children's Greenville Hospital, c/o Sudan Shriners, PO Box 12829, New Bern, NC 28561; Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401-7335; or First Presbyterian Church of Lumberton, 1006 N Elm Street, Lumberton, NC 28358.