Downriver Today

Flags were lowered to half-staff earlier this month upon the passing of former Sen. Vincent Gregory (D-MI).

According to a news release from the state government, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued the proclamation on Nov. 5, which also happened to be the day of Gregory’s funeral.

State Representative Kyra Bolden (D-Southfield) said that she was saddened to hear of Gregory’s passing.  

“Senator Gregory was a kind man and true statesman. From his service in Vietnam to his time in the Legislature, he dedicated his life to his community. He will be remembered for his lasting impact on the Southfield and Lathrup Village communities and for leading with kindness and compassion. My prayers go out to his family during this difficult time."

Gregory followed his military career with the U.S. Marine Corps by joining the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department in 1973. He served in the department until his retirement in 2003 where he proceeded to serve in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 to 2011 and from 2011 to 2018 in the Michigan Senate.

“Sen. Vincent Gregory was a quintessential role model,” Whitmer said in the release. “A father of six, grandfather of five. A Vietnam veteran, a Wayne County detective, and a union president. He represented Southfield for a decade in the Michigan Legislature, where he garnered respect from both sides of the aisle. Senator Gregory fought passionately for people, got things done and always found time to be a great mentor.”

She added that her thoughts were with Gregory’s family and friends “and anyone who was lucky enough to know him.”

“Southfield is a big city but a tight community — and Vincent Gregory was an integral part of it. He was our trusted and dedicated county commissioner, state representative and state senator,” said State Senator Jeremy Moss, (D-Southfield). “In the legislature, Vince represented southern Oakland County, leading with the heart. As a Vietnam War veteran and a retiree of the Wayne County Sheriff’s office, he amplified the voices of Michiganders who serve on the front lines. It was an honor to learn from him and I was proud (to) work beside him. My thoughts go out to his family, friends, and our entire community.”