Northwest Wayne News

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Nov. 5 in remembrance of former Senator Vincent Gregory on the day of his funeral. 

In a recent release from the Office of the Governor, state leaders reflected on Sen. Gregory and his impact on the city of Southfield over the years.

“Senator Vincent Gregory was a quintessential role model,”  Whitmer said in the release. “A father of 6, grandfather of 5. 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. My thoughts are with his wife of 44 years, Yvonne, his family, his friends, and anyone who was lucky enough to know him.”

Among comments, State Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) underscored Gregory's integral role in the tight community of Southfied, adding that he was the city's trusted and dedicated county commissioner, state representative and state senator. 

"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 work beside him," Moss said in the release.

According to the release, Gregory’s career in public service began in 1968 with the. U.S. Marine Corps, where he served until 1970. From 1973 to 2003, Gregory worked in the Wayne County Sheriff's Department, going on to serve in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 to 2011 and in the Michigan Senate from 2011 to 2018.

“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," State Rep. Kyra Bolden (D-Southfield) said in the release.