Carla L. Gregory is dead at 53

It took more than a bad turn of events to keep Carla L. Gregory from pursuing her passions.

When it came to faith, family and church, her husband said, nothing could get in her way. When illness forced her into early retirement, she simply redirected her energy.

"She never gave up on her faith," said Judge Roger L. Gregory, her husband of nearly 29 years.

Mrs. Gregory, who lived in Midlothian, died Saturday at age 53, about 22 months after being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.

After retiring in 2007 from Altria Group as manager of law administration, she put her energy into her church, St. Paul's Baptist. She helped the two-campus megachurch develop and run its small ministry programs.

While the church's membership is well into the thousands, Gregory said his wife was able to find the personal connections that kept her spirit fresh.

"That was her passion, her love," he said. "Her passion was for people."

Mrs. Gregory was never content living in the shadow of her prominent husband, the first African-American appointed to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

She was, he said, always in hot pursuit of more education and a place where she could put it to use. She earned multiple degrees, with a focus on library science and the law.

"She always loved being a librarian," Gregory said. "Her cataloging skills came in handy in all kinds of ways."

With three daughters in mind -- and often in tow -- Mrs. Gregory also funneled energy into education. That passion was often felt in Richmond's schools, where she would volunteer. Among her favorite projects, Gregory said, was a reading program called "Sisters Turning Pages."

"Carla was a wonderful supporter and friend of Richmond Public Schools," said Superintendent Yvonne W. Brandon. "She was a person who promoted education for herself, her children and others in the community. She quietly did the work of giants. She will be sorely missed as a personal friend and as a supporter of Richmond schools."

Her impact remained vibrant at Altria nearly two years after leaving, said Denise F. Keane, executive vice president and general counsel at Altria Group.

"Carla Gregory was a critical and loved member of the Law Department at Altria," she said "Her integrity, her selfless spirit and the strength of her management skills are all traits for which she will be remembered and forever missed."

In addition to her husband, survivors include three daughters, Rachel Gregory, Christina Gregory and Adriene Gregory Carter, all of Richmond; a sister, Merley Lewis of Clinton, Md.; and a granddaughter.

A wake for Mrs. Gregory will be held today, Wednesday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Her funeral will take place Thursday at noon at St. Paul's Baptist Church, 4247 Creighton Road.

Burial will be private.

Contact Zachary Reid at (804) 775-8179 or .