Frederick Nathan Gregory

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Frederick (Fred) Nathan Gregory, who departed this life peacefully on September 22, 2025, just a few weeks short of his 91st birthday on October 30th. Born in 1934 in the tiny hamlet of Queen’s Cove, Trinity Bay, Newfoundland—a place with a population of just thirty—Fred led a life filled with love, kindness, resilience, and boundless empathy and compassion for all. His presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Fred was the son of Nathan and Agnes (Goobie) Gregory, who met in Queen’s Cove before Nathan moved to New York City as a skilled tradesman, helping to build the steel skyscrapers of the 1930’s. Agnes followed Nathan to New York, where they married just prior to the Great Depression. Facing the hardships of that era, they returned to Queen’s Cove, where Fred, the youngest of three children, was born. Fred had a deep bond with his siblings all his life. He lost Doris about 10 years ago and Everette, continues to thrive at ninety-three in Lewisporte, Newfoundland.

In Queen’s Cove, Fred grew up in a community where living off the land was a necessity. If they couldn’t catch it, shoot it, trap it, pick it, or grow it, they didn’t have it. There was no running water, and outdoor “toilets” were the norm. Homes were built by hand, and essentials like sugar and flour were purchased through the sale of animal pelts and milled lumber. These humble beginnings taught Fred the values of hard work and community.

Fred was born at home, under the care of the community women who ensured he thrived after a frail start by placing him in the warming oven of their stove. He received his education in a one-room schoolhouse, where the quality of learning truly punched above its weight. For example, as an adult, based on what he learned in that one room school house, Fred often quoted the poet William Wordsworth Longfellow: “Grow old along with me; the best is yet to be.” This sentiment resonated with his life and his relationships, especially with Margaret, or Margie as he called her.

The Gregory family eventually moved to St. John’s, Newfoundland, where Fred completed his education and, after some time at Newfoundland Railway, began working for RA Templeton Limited. His career involved traveling across Newfoundland and Labrador, distributing products that were essential to remote communities – paint, floor covering, wallpaper, you name it. If you lived in a remote area, you likely had something in your home that Fred had sold. He loved his work and his customers, and this dedication earned him countless unsolicited letters of praise upon his retirement.

It was in St. John’s almost 70 years ago that Fred met the true love of his life, Elizabeth Margaret Rose Matthews. Their love story is unlike any other. Fred adored , cherished, and wholeheartedly loved Margie beyond measure. Fred was her person, her protector, her provider, and the love of her life. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Sherry Lee and Roxanne, and Fred also delighted in the arrival of his only grandson, Matthew Gregory Byrne, who came along thirty four years ago.

Fred’s deep and pure love was shared with his daughters and grandson every single day. He took immense pride in his family, and greeted them with a twinkle in those bright blue eyes, and the warmest genuine smile, every time they entered the room, right up until his last day on earth.

A great sense of humor was also a hallmark of Fred’s character. He loved life and often engaged with others through his many stories and much laughter. Smythe’s 1950’s cartoon character, Andy Capp was his favourite. He found great joy in a good game of cards, particularly playing “120s,” and his enthusiasm could be heard across the neighborhood when he would declare “Game!” with delight, especially if he won against Margie. He loved Newfoundland, the ocean, a majestic tree, the sound of a song bird. And, he loved to have a 5:00 pm drink, preferably rum or whiskey, and preferably with company.

Left with loving memories are his wife, Elizaberh Margaret Rose (Matthews) Gregory; daughters, Sherry Lee Gregory (Peter Buntain) and Roxanne Elizabeth Gregory; brother, Everett Gregory; grandson, Matthew Gregory Byrne; sisters-in law, Suzanne Clarke (Carm), Florence and Debbie. He was predeceased by his sister, Doris and brothers-in-law, Rick and Harold.

A private funeral has taken place, and a celebration of Fred's remarkable life will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Canadian Lung Association.

Frederic Nathan Gregory will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his kindness, and the joy he brought to all who crossed his path. His legacy of deep friendship, zest for life, strength and warmth will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in peace Fred; your love will forever remain in our hearts.