Fannie Mae Queen Gregory

Fannie Mae Queen Gregory, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her daughter's home in Lenoir on Thursday, July 23, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on July 13, 1934, in Swain County, she lived a long and meaningful life defined by her love for her family, her kindness towards others, and her enduring spirit.

Fannie devoted herself wholeheartedly to her loved ones. She was the devoted mother of Phyllis Jean Anderson and husband Chuck, Linda Gail Baker and husband Vernon, Kathy Mae Frizsell and husband Harold, Donald Vance Gregory, Jr., and Larry Harvey Gregory and wife Linda. Her greatest joy was always her family, who remained her number one priority throughout her life. She cherished every moment with her many grandchildren: Shelby Anderson and Paula, Tammy Connell and husband James, Christy Burton, Shelly Cochran and husband James, Crystal Nelson and husband Preston, Scotty Gregory, Lisa Rafel, Jacob Gregory, Charlene Gregory, and Amanda Gregory; her great-grandchildren: Nicholas Anderson, Zacheriah Anderson and fiancée Kelsey, Tamara Burton, Christopher Burton and Autumn, Jessica Burton, Michael Farris and wife Stephanie, Brynnen Gregory, Cora Cochran, Sydney Cochran, Justin Nelson, Hunter Nelson, Trenton Gregory, and Brittany Gregory; her great-great-grandchildren: Dawson James Anderson, Teslalynn Anderson, Paisley Anderson, Felcity Anderson, Declan Anderson, Jaylan Burton, Cadence Burton, Bently Burton, Kamdyn Trantham, Connor Farris, Cooper Farris, Allie Cochran, Ava-Joe Cochran, and Divinity Lovella. She is also survived by her brothers, Charles Queen and wife Glenda, and Donald Queen and wife Marie, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends, including her best friend, Jeanette Lyda.

Fannie’s family tree flourished from the roots of love and care planted by her parents, Samuel Oscar Queen and Lila Dills Queen, both of whom preceded her in death. She is also reunited with her beloved husband of 46 yeras, Donald Vance Gregory, Sr.; her grandson, Larry Gregory, Jr.; her great-grandson, Caleb Anderson; and her siblings: James Queen, Robert Queen, Vernon Queen, Mary Lackey, and Inez Anders, whose memories she always held dear.

For 32 years, Fannie dedicated herself to her work at CP Clare in Fairview, where she formed close bonds and lifelong friendships. Through her commitment to her profession and her connection to her colleagues, Fannie set an example of diligence and respect for all who knew her.

Fannie’s character and gentle spirit touched countless lives. She loved the simple joys, especially watching the birds and small animals from her window, a daily pleasure lovingly made possible by her son, Donald Jr., who ensured that her feeders were always full and her view was never wanting for the company of nature’s small visitors. As a faithful and longtime member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Fannie found comfort and community. She extended that same warmth and devotion to her friends, cherishing their companionship through the years. Fannie also had a lifelong passion for collecting dolls from the time she was a little girl.

Those who knew Fannie will remember her unwavering love and concern for her family, her welcoming nature, and the many blessings she brought into the lives of others. Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and strength—a lasting gift to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family will receive friends during a visitation on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 1428 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28806. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the same location. Fannie will be laid to rest at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 455 Hollywood Road, Fairview, NC 28730. The family will gather in the fellowship hall of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church following the burial service.

Fannie Mae Queen Gregory will be dearly missed and forever remembered for her abiding love, radiant kindness, and the indelible mark she leaves on her family and friends.

Fannie's children rejoice in knowing that their momma is in the presence of The Lord and is now walking barefooted with her new perfect feet upon the streets of gold in heaven.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Fannie's family.