Oct 4, 2020

Franklin S. “Buddy” Gregg Sr., 87, of Eighty Four, passed away in Jefferson Memorial Hospital Tuesday, September 29, 2020.

Buddy was born February 7, 1933, in Masontown, W.Va. He was the son of John B. and Mary O. Fortner Gregg.

Buddy was a well-known excavating contractor, operating under Gregg. Inc. in Washington County for more than 60 years. Other businesses he owned were the Somerset Inn, Eighty Four Supply Yard and Eighty Four Lakes.

He was loved and respected by so many which was a testimony to how big his heart was. He was a mentor to anyone needing his help. He had a soft spot for kids. Buddy and his family hosted “Fun Days” for kids with special “abilities.” For many of these kids it was the first time they had an opportunity to fish, swim, ride in a boat or ride a horse.

His favorite pastimes were playing with his grandkids and great-grandkids, flea markets and fishing. He was so proud that he had taught so many how to fish.

He loved flying in his younger days and until a few years ago, he held an IFR pilot license.

Buddy still enjoyed operating equipment. Guaranteed God will have him moving dirt in Heaven.

On July 1, 1964, he married Joyce Leichty.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Franklin S. “Buddy” Gregg Jr. (Maryellen) of Eighty Four; three daughters, Corie Ann Gregg, Tracy St. Jean (Donald) and Barbara Gregg, all of Eighty Four; grandchildren, Benjamin Gregg, Meghan Matuk (James), Caitlin Taylor (Justin), Bella and Thatcher Spencer; great-grandchildren, Mia Woods, Jobe and Vayda Taylor; one brother, James A. Gregg; four sisters, Ruth Helvey, Rosalie Eckels, Janet McMahon and Catherine Hainaut; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, J. Joseph Gregg, John A. Gregg; and five sisters, Lucille Gregg, Mary Louise Kovach, Helen Mannisto, and Joann Hunter.

At the request of the deceased, there will be no visitation or services. Arrangements entrusted to the McIlvaine-Speakman Funeral Home Ltd., Robert K. McIlvaine, Owner/Supervisor, 27 Cherry Avenue, Houston, PA 15342.

Condolences may be left by viewing the obituary at www.mcilvaine-speakman.com.