Linda Gregory

Waynesville, Linda Ford Gregory, age 75, of the Bethel Community, peacefully passed away and entered her heavenly home on Friday, December 25, 2020 at the John F. Keever Solace Center in Asheville.

Linda was born on May 15, 1945 and was the daughter of the late Ralph E. and Betty Smith Ford.  In addition, she was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Theodore and Audrey Ford; and maternal grandparents, Paul and Nettie Smith.

She was a 1989 graduate of Mars Hill University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.  She was employed by the State of North Carolina for 37 years where she retired as Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the 7 westernmost counties.  She served on the State Employees’ Credit Union Advisory Board for 10 years.  Linda was instrumental in the creation of The Arc of Haywood County and served as a board member for 42 years.  She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church.

Linda is survived by her husband of 62 years, Robert “Bob” Gregory; two daughters, Pamela G. Taylor of Waynesville and Donna Gregory of Clyde; grandson, Kaleb Daniel Wingate of Waynesville; granddaughter, Danielle Roberts-Wingate (Lori) of Alabama; great-granddaughter, Lily Wingate of Alabama; paternal aunt,  Joann Ford Hoyle; sister, Carolyn Ford (Nick); two brothers, Edward Ford (Dot) of Tennessee, and Paul Ford of Waynesville; and nine nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at Bethel Baptist Church with Reverend Dr. Roy Kilby and Reverend Dr. Bobby Rogers officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. prior to the Celebration of Life. Due to Covid-19, all protocols and mandates are requested to be followed, including mask.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Arc of Haywood County, 407 Welch Street, Waynesville, North Carolina 28786, and Special Olympics of North Carolina, P.O. Box 25968, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27611.