Charles G. “Charlie” Gregory

Charles G. “Charlie” Gregory, age 85, of 208 East Union Street, Vienna, died Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele.

Born in Vienna, he was the son of the late Hardy Gregory, Sr. and Mary Wood Gaither Gregory.  Charlie graduated from Vienna High School in 1957 and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry and his Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Georgia.  He also earned his 6-year Degree in Education Administration from Valdosta State College.  He began teaching in Vienna in 1963, later becoming the principal of Vienna Elementary School, the curriculum director for the Dooly County Schools and retired as the assistant superintendent.  His mission throughout his career was to benefit children through education any way he could.

He was a lifelong member of Vienna United Methodist Church, but recently assisted in beginning St. Paul Chapel at Dooly Campground.  During his many years at Vienna UMC, he taught the Joy Sunday School Class and worked with the youth.

Charlie was dedicated to his family and loved them more than anything.  He was married to the love of his life for 57 years, the former Jean Marie Howell and together, they had one daughter, Jeanna Gregory Fennell.  He cherished every moment he got to spend with his grandsons, Charlie and Pete.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jean Marie Gregory of Vienna; his daughter, Jeanna Fennell of Macon; his brothers, Hardy Gregory, Jr. (Toni) of Vienna and William Hulbert “Hub” Gregory (Betty Sue) of Leesburg; his sister-in-law, Peggy Gregory of Milledgeville; his grandchildren, Charlie Fennell and Pete Fennell.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Alton Gregory.

Funeral services were held at 11 AM Tuesday, January 14 in Vienna Methodist Church.  Rev. Katie Griffis, Rev. John A. Walker and Rev. Tommy Mason officiated and interment was in Vienna City Cemetery.

Tom Jarvis provided music for the service.  Rev., Tony Crosby sang, “Amazing Grace” and led the congregation in singing, “Blessed Assurance.”

Jaye Teel, Phillip Warren, Rooney L. Bowen, III, Nakivius Cobb, Bert Gregory, Dylan Teel, Roderick Zanders and Kevin Teel served as pallbearers.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. Paul Chapel, PO Box 1, Vienna, GA 31092 or Dooly Campground, PO Box 7, Vienna, GA 31092.

Friends may sign the online register book at www.brannen-nesmith.com.  A recording of the funeral service is available on the funeral home’s Facebook page.

Charlie lived his life according to the words of Mother Teresa, “When we give, we give to Jesus.  I’d rather make mistakes in kindness than work miracles in unkindness.”

Brannen-NeSmith Funeral Home of Vienna had charge of arrangements.