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
Leave a tribute for Steven Lavone Gregory.
Gregory was a “one of a kind” man. Always enjoyed our interactions, jokes and conversations. He was certainly proud of his family. Thoughts and Prayers with Nancy and the entire family.
My deepest sympathy to Steve’s family. Steve med a remarkably complete life. I remember him for his enthusiasm, wit and resilience.
Nancy and family, My sincerest condolences for your loss. Steve will be missed by so many. I’ve had the honor of not only being friends with Steve for 50+ years, but also working with him to fulfill a mutual dream of building a memorial to our alma mater, Morganton High School. What an incredible guy and great friend ~ keeping you all in my heart. Steve, rise in peace, light and love 🕊️🙏🏼🩵 - Ruth
Nancy, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your girls. Steve leaves a hole in your heart- I know. Keep the fun and wonderful memories you shared close to you. It will help ease the pain. We all will miss Steve’s smile and friendship. Love, Brownie
Steve was one of the friendliest people I have ever known. His smile said it all. His strong will and determination was evident in everything he did. My thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and his family. Judy Lane Davis
Steve was a schoolmate and friend. He would meet any challenge and keep us all smiling. His leavetaking is a great loss to family, friends, and our community.
He was a very kind man and a pleasure to do business with. Sincere condolences to the family.
My condolences to Nancy and family. Steve’s smile, wit, and model to live life to the fullest with the cards you are dealt meant a lot to me. I will remember him as a kind gentleman who was in service to his Father God.
Steve and I became friends at 5 and enjoyed many good times over the years. I am so sorry for his family and am heartbroken for the loss of such a wonderful person. I am honored to have been his friend. Lee Ann Sigmon Farley
Steve is one of God’s special souls. He was a tribute to society, our community and all who knew him. He will be missed by all he left here. I know Miss Callie is happy to have him with her again.