Jose Gregorio

With deepest love and heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Jose Gregorio, affectionately known as “Greg Taylor,” who gently departed this world on August 8, 2026, at OhioHealth’s Hospice House - Kobacker House in Columbus, Ohio. 

Jose Gregorio was born in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 7, 1956, a city known for its vibrancy, artistry, and soul—qualities that Jose reflected in abundance throughout his life. From his earliest days, Jose’s extraordinary spirit shone through in everything he did.

A gentle soul, he was a man of many talents, whose creativity seemed truly boundless. A gifted musician, Jose mastered guitar, bass, saxophone, drums, and piano, filling every gathering with music and joy. Music wasn’t just a passion—it was the rhythm that underscored his life, an ever-present thread in family celebrations and quiet moments alike.

Jose’s artistic eye didn’t stop with music. Behind a camera lens, he captured moments that might have otherwise slipped by unremembered. His love of photography rendered beautiful narratives in every frame, preserving the story of his loved ones with grace and sensitivity.

His talent for storytelling carried through both his professional and personal lives. As a journalist and voice actor for HBO Latin America, Jose delighted audiences with his unique gift for expression. His voice, resonant with warmth and character, brought stories and characters to life in homes across the continent. Those who knew him also recall his proud career as a retired journalist—a man who placed truth, insight, and the power of words at the heart of all he did. He shared his knowledge generously as a Professor of Communication, touching the lives of countless students and inspiring future communicators to find their own voices.

Jose’s passions were as diverse as they were heartfelt. He enjoyed the technical precision and camaraderie of HAM radio collecting and cherished every moment spent riding motorcycles—feeling the wind, the freedom, and the adventure of the open road. As an avid cinephile, Jose found inspiration and comfort in the stories told on screen, whether gathered with family or in the quiet of a solitary evening.

Family meant everything to Jose Gregorio. He filled his days with love, laughter, and the simple pleasures of togetherness. Never happier than when grilling outdoors surrounded by the people—and pets—he held dear, he especially treasured time spent with his loyal dogs Max and Jack, who made the journey from Venezuela as a testament to Jose’s devotion and care. Quiet walks on peaceful trails, embracing the beauty of nature, were moments of joy he often shared with those closest to him.

The legacy of Jose’s compassion, humor, and zest for life endures in those who remain. He is survived by his beloved wife, Milagros Martinez; his cherished son, Jose Martinez (Angela Hammond, whom he considered an adopted daughter); and his loving sister, "Miky" Milagros Graterol. He is now reunited in eternal peace with his father, Marino Graterol, and his mother, Nelly Bustillos.

Every note he played, every loving glance he shared, and every story he told leaves an indelible mark on the world he leaves behind. As we mourn Jose Gregorio’s passing, we also celebrate the beauty, the laughter, and the warmth he gave so freely.

May his memory be a blessing, a song that remains always in our hearts.