Deputy Jason Scott Gregory of Montesano, Washington, passed away on March 6th, 2024. He was 42 years old.
Jason was born on June 14th, 1981 in Ironton, Ohio to parents Connie and Toney Gregory. He attended high school in Ironton and graduated in 1999.
Jason was a very active member of the United States Military. He was part of the Marine Corps from 1999 through 2004 and then went on to join the Army in 2007 before retiring from military service in 2021 after more than 20 years of service. He completed the Advanced Non-Commissioned Officers Course, the Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course, the Primary Leadership Development Course, and the Joint Fires Observers Course. He also did two tours in Afghanistan, the first one from January 1st to December 10th of 2009 and the second one from December 15th 2011 to October 15th 2012.
He has been with the Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office for two and a half years.
Jason earned numerous awards and commendations during his time in the military, including: 3 Army Commendation Medals, 4 Army Achievement Medals, 2 Meritorious Unit Commendations, United States Navy Unit Commendation, United States Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, 4 Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal (Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 3 campaign stars, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral Three), Army Service Ribbon, 3 Overseas Service Ribbons, 4 United States Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbons (NATO Medal), Silver Basic Recruiter badge (Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge), Driver Badge and Mechanic Badge.
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Jason Gregory, a true beacon of compassion and kindness in our community. Jason’s dedication to his job transcended mere duty; it was a profound commitment to serving those in need, often going beyond the call of duty to make a meaningful impact.
One poignant example of Jason’s selflessness was when he encountered a family in dire straits, living in their van with four young children during the harsh winter months. Without hesitation, Jason used his own resources to provide them with shelter, booking them a stay at a local hotel for three nights. His empathy didn’t stop there; together with his wife, he initiated a GoFundMe campaign that rallied the support of our community, enabling the family to secure a safe and warm home for two months, allowing them the time to rebuild their lives.
Another instance that encapsulates Jason’s compassion occurred when he came across a young adult, suffering from mental health challenges, wandering in the rain wearing nothing but flip-flops. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Jason not only provided immediate assistance by ensuring the young man received nourishment and medical attention at the hospital but also continued to follow up on his progress. Learning of the young man’s ambition to walk to Canada despite his dire circumstances, Jason and his wife took it upon themselves to fulfill a basic need, providing him with shoes and socks, personally delivering them to the hospital.
Jason’s acts of kindness were not fueled by a desire for recognition but rather by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those around him. His humility and unwavering dedication to serving others have left an indelible mark on our small community, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need.
Jason dedicated his life to serving. He retired from the military with 20 years of service, 6 years in the Marines and 14 years in the Army.
His love and devotion to his beloved wife and 4 children is unmatched. He cherished and loved his family beyond words. Jason’s presence was marked by a quiet strength and a steadfast commitment to his community. He was a gentle protector, a family man, and an animal lover who’s authentic personality made it easy for people to trust and connect with him. He touched, helped, and changed the lives of many in his 42 years of life. It was his honor to serve beside his brothers and sisters in the military and law enforcement.
Jason is survived by his wife, Kendall (Leslie) Gregory; son, Zaylor; daughters, Briar, Jamison, and Hadley; parents, Connie and Toney Gregory of Ironton, Ohio; sister, Leigh Ann O’Bryant of Ironton; nieces, Haley O’Bryant and Emma Grant; nephews, Zach O’Bryant and Christian Grant; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bob and Susan (McGarrah) Leslie; brother-in-law, Matt O’Bryant; and sisters-in-law, Sara Leslie and Jordan Leslie.
Though Jason may no longer walk among us, his legacy of kindness and generosity will.
Services will take place on April 21st, 2024, with a Law Enforcement Procession starting at 11 a.m. (Traveling from Elma High School, on the old Highway, turning right onto Church street, in Montesano, and ending at Montesano High School.)
The memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. inside of the Montesano High School gymnasium, with Military Honors taking place at the football stadium, following the service. Reception to follow in the Montesano Junior High gymnasium.
