A most gracious, kind, and loving lady passed away early on September 1, 2025. Shelby Jean Gregory will be remembered as a genuine and humble Southern lady who gave generously, created with imagination and flair, and never missed a chance to cook for others. Known for her laughter and grace, her light-hearted offerings of “Gigi Wisdom” like “Never go anywhere without your lipstick or earscrews” were taken quite seriously, as they were always appropriate.
Born March 8, 1937 and raised in Lafayette, Tennessee, Shelby graduated from Macon County High School and attended Middle Tennessee State University. She married her high school sweetheart, Odric “Ott” Winston Gregory. Together for 75 years, married for 67, they built a life of faith, love, and purpose, always remaining true to their values and roots. They raised their daughter, Mitzi Gregory Elisar (Jay), and later became “Gigi” and “Gaga” to their greatest treasure, granddaughter Caroline Blair Crenshaw (Lucas).
As Shelby adored all children, her most recent joy was the news of a great-grandson expected in February. To him, and to future generations, her legacy will be that she lived her life like her favorite reminder: “The Joy is in the Journey.”
Shelby’s creativity and love of beauty found expression in many ways. She was an avid collector and was most proud of her extensive doll collection and the artwork of her brother Jim. She curated amazing displays that delighted many and were even featured on PBS’s Tennessee Crossroads.
When not introducing people to her collections, she was happiest in the kitchen, cooking for anyone and everyone, Her highly sought after “to go” boxes are legendary, especially on Thanksgiving, which she loved most.
Faith was at the center of Shelby’s life. As a longtime member of West End Baptist Church, her love for kids was apparent as she enjoyed working with Vacation Bible School, the Children’s Ministry, and the annual Shoebox Ministry at Christmas. She was a natural matriarch, not only to her own family but to everyone blessed to know her. Always modest and humble, she lived boldly in her love for God, her family, and the beautiful things of life.
Shelby was preceded in death by her parents, Judith Lovina and Jesse Eugene Fuqua, also of Lafayette.
In addition to Ott, Mitzi, and Caroline, Shelby is survived by her brother Jim Fuqua (Sue); nephews Jason Fuqua and Cody Fuqua; great-nieces Peyton Eldridge (Jason) and Riley Ann Fuqua; and great-great nephew Camden Eldridge, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation with the family will be Thursday, September 4, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at West End Baptist Church, 440 West Main Street, Gallatin. A private graveside service will be held Friday morning, followed by an informal celebration of Shelby’s life at the Gregory family home at 11:30 a.m. All family and friends are welcome.
Pallbearers will be Jason Fuqua, Cody Fuqua, Chad Coley, Bo Bowling, David Johnson, Cooper Elisar and Cannon Elisar.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to West End Baptist Church Scholarship Fund.
Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be submitted at www.alexandergallatin.com. (615)502-0011.
This obituary was published by Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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