Janice Lee Gregory

Janice Lee (Beene) Gregory, age 78, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. Born in Sewanee, Tennessee, Janice was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her. The family finds comfort in the words of Psalm 116:15, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”

Janice graduated from Trousdale County High School and attended David Lipscomb College before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Austin Peay University, where she proudly established the first women’s tennis team. Later in life, her love for helping others led her to a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida.

Janice began her career as a teacher and coach but quickly found her true calling as a devoted stay-at-home mother and grandmother, passionately pursuing her interests in ministry and counseling. As a founding member of Anchor Point Church, she was a beloved sister and wise counselor to many.

Janice was married to Dr. Jerry Gregory for nearly 57 years. Their love story began when they met in the first grade in Hartsville, Tennessee. They became high school sweethearts and went on to build a life and legacy together. Their love and dedication to one another will ripple through generations to come.

She cherished the early morning hours spent sipping coffee while reading her Bible, loved playing tennis, and took great joy in cooking and hosting gatherings for family and friends. Remarkably, she continued to play competitive tennis well into her 70s, showcasing her enduring love for the game and for deep friendships formed with her teammates. Janice had a profound impact on many lives, always teaching others to follow Christ.

Janice is preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Wilma Beene, and her brother Johnny Beene, sister-in-law Barbara, and nephew John Brandon Beene. She is survived by her loving husband, Dr. Jerry Gregory; her brothers Tommy Beene (Connie Beene) and Bill Beene; her children Shay Gregory, Les Gregory, and Dr. Ryan Gregory (Lacy Gregory); and her beloved grandchildren: Cristine Mangune (Restie Mangune), Brittney Herron (Fox Herron), Trey Scott (Hailey Scott), Lela Gregory, Tanner Gregory (Jessica Gregory), Emma Gregory, Beckham Gregory, and Davis Gregory. Janice also leaves behind her precious great-grandchildren: Grace, Nathan, Isabella, Dexter, Emerson, Luella, Hazel, Judah, Sunny, Magdalene, and Liam.

A memorial service celebrating Janice's life will be held on Sunday, November 30, 4pm at Christ Cumberland Presbyterian Church, located at 19501 Holly Lane, Lutz, FL 33548.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Janice's memory to Hope Worldwide (hopeww.org) or the USF Health Coalition to Cure Parkinson’s Disease (https://giving.usf.edu/online/gift/f/250001/).

Janice’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.