Donald "Don" L. Gregory, Sr.

Donald “Don” L. Gregory, Sr., 91, of Columbus, passed away on September 7, 2026. He was born in Delaware, Ohio on April 28, 1935 to the late Thomas and Lucille (Brush) Gregory. He married Shirley Ann Smiley on July 21, 1956; she survives.

Along with his beloved spouse of over 70 years, Don is survived by son, Donnie (Cherie) Gregory 2; daughter, Tawnya Gregory; grandchildren, Boomer Travis, Jr., Tawny Travis, Trey Gregory III, and T.J. Gregory; great-grandchildren, Danny Travis, Kaylee, Tabitha, and Avery Riley; The St.Amant Family, for their support; Uncle Roy Marvin; Mike (Nina) Puckett; and many racing friends and fans.

Don worked professionally as a mechanic for Pennsylvania Truck lines for many years; but the passion he held was racing stock cars for over 25 years, winning numerous track championships and races.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 4pm to 7pm, Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at Newcomer Funeral Home, Northeast Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio. Cremation to follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Victory Junction Gang at victoryjunction.org/donate-online/, selecting the “I would like to dedicate this gift” option.

The Newcomer family is honored to serve the Gregory family. To leave a special message or memory for the Smith family, please visit the Guestbook.