Charles Coleman Gregory III

Charles Coleman Gregory III, age 69, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, with his wife and soulmate, Teri, by his side and surrounded by those who loved him most after a courageous five-year battle with ALS. He was born in San Antonio, Texas, on May 19, 1955, to Charles Coleman Gregory Jr. and Jane Ophelia Thurmond Gregory. Throughout his battle with this disease, Charles exemplified unwavering strength and resilience. He faced each day with courage and determination, never once uttering a complaint or questioning “Why me?” His fighting spirit endured until his very last breath.

Charles graduated from Trinity University in 1977 and went on to earn his Doctor of Jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law in August 1981. He practiced law in Houston for 32 years, but his true passion lay in the solid waste industry. Charles was a Garbageman at heart. He founded and successfully sold three trash companies: Diamond Disposal, Royal Disposal and Recycle, and Pinnacle Waste Solutions. Beyond his passion for the trash business, Charles found his greatest joy in the companionship of his beloved Münsterländers. Among them, his cherished dog, Partner, held a special place in his heart.

A dedicated member of the community, Charles was actively involved in several organizations, including Holland Lodge #1, Houston Scottish Rite, and Arabia Shrine. He made significant contributions to the degree work at the Houston Scottish Rite and served as legal counsel for several years at Arabia Shrine. Charles also provided a tremendous amount of pro-bono work for those with a need.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Teri Gregory; his children, Madeline Cleary, Marshall Gregory, Meredith Gregory, Lindsey Stachurski, and Leah Higgins; his sister, Dr. Gale Gregory-Laine; his niece, Reagan Gregory-Laine; and his father, Charles Coleman Gregory, Jr. He is predeceased by his mother, Jane Ophelia Thurmond Gregory.

A celebration of Charles's life will be held on January 22, 2025, at Simonton Community Church, located at 9703 FM 1489, Simonton, TX., 77485 at 11:00 am. Following the service, a luncheon reception will take place at Joseph's Cigar Shop, 202 Morton St., Richmond, TX., 77469.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Charles's honor to The Shriners Children’s Hospital.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.