Steven Lavone Gregory was born on December 9,1950 to Lavone and Callie Isenhower Gregory. Steve graduated from Morganton High School in 1968 and received a BA degree from High Point University in 1972. He then attended the Gemological Institute of America in Santa Monica, Ca where he obtained a Graduate Gemologist degree. Steve joined the family business, Gregory Jewelers Inc. where he became President in 1983. Steve was a member of the American Gem Society and was President of the North Carolina Guild of the American Gem Society in 1999. He was also a longtime board member of the North Carolina Jewelers Association and served as President in 2000.
Among his various local endeavors, Steve was a member of the Morganton Jaycees and the Morganton Elks Lodge. He was an avid pilot and golfer for many years and was a member of Mimosa Hills Country Club where he served as President in 1998. He was appointed to the First Citizens Bank Board in 1980 and served as Chairman of the Board starting in 1998.
He also served on the Beatrice Cobb Trust since 2003. He was a lifelong, active member of Calvary Lutheran Church and served in various roles. Steve was appointed to the Morganton Alcoholic Beverage Control Board in 1982 and served as vice-chairman and chairman.
Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Hartsog Gregory, two daughters Briana Gregory Czerwinski of Wilmington, NC, Brooke Ledford of Holly Springs, NC, two granddaughters, Brynna Ledford and Bree Ledford, and three grandsons, Lincoln Czerwinski, Maxwell Czerwinski, and Callahan Czerwinski.
The family will receive friends from 4pm until 6pm, Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 11am, Friday, April 10, 2026 at Calvery Lutheran Church with Rev. Paul Carlson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Calvary Lutheran Church.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
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Steve was a gracious friend and fellow board member for many years. Always a kind word and a smile. You made my life brighter Steve, and I will always miss you. God bless you and your family brother. With love... Wally
Steve was one of the nicest people I've had the good fortune to know. I miss knowing he's in this world. My heartfelt condolences to Nancy and the rest of Steve's loving family.
To Nancy, Brianna and families: Steve was such a thoughtful friend. He will be sorely missed in the Morganton community. He leaves a rich heritage and many wonderful memories in all the areas he touched in his life. My sincere condolences to all the family. Dolores
Steve was a wonderful person. Always friendly and engaging. My Dad Vernon Rader loved playing golf with Steve at Mimosa Hills. I always enjoyed shopping at his jewelry store. Steve will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to his family. Brian Rader
My sincere condolences to all of you. Steve was a great friend for many years, he had more fortitude than anyone I have known. May you find peace and acceptance during this difficult time. Jim
To the Gregory family - Steve was much loved. Sue grew up with and graduated with Steve in 1968. We have continued to stay in touch over the years. He will be missed by many. Rest in peace my good friend. Skip and Sue Avery Douglas
It is with much sadness to acknowledge the transition of Steve. It seems like as far I can remember, there was a Steve Gregory. He was such an interesting person, who could captivate the attention of many. He brought much laughter to me during our conversations and I shall always remember him for that sense of humor. My condolences to his lovely wife and great family.
Condolences to his Family, Friends and loved ones. I am sorry to hear of his passing, he was very sweet.
There are some people who bring such a light to the world that it still shines after they are gone. Steve was a wonderful friend to everyone. Always smiling, always engaging, and quite the comic. He is the only reason I survived French class in High School. You will be missed by many. There is another bright star in the skies tonight. Rest peacefully my friend.
To the Gregory family - Steve was much loved. Sue grew up with and graduated with Steve in 1968. We have continued to stay in touch over the years. He will be missed by many. Rest in peace my good friend. Skip and Sue Avery Douglas