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Metro Atlanta-born comedian James Gregory dies at 78, publicist confirms – WSB-TV Channel 2

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DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A longtime comedian from metro Atlanta died Thursday, according to a statement released by the star’s representatives.

According to an obituary statement from Nashville Publicity, comedy legend James Greogy, Jr., born in Lithonia in DeKalb County, died of heart complications while in the care of family members. He was 78 years old.

Born in a Lithonia kitchen on May 6, 1946, Gregory was known for his deep Georgian accent and what his publicist called down-to-earth, common-sense humor.

Before getting into stand-up, Gregory was a salesman. He first took the stage in 1981 at Excelsior Mill in Atlanta, participating in comedy night in the restaurant’s basement, according to a representative.

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By the end of the year, he was taking the stage at Atlanta’s Punchline comedy club, working his way to headliner status.

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Described as a patriot, according to his representatives, Gregory was particularly popular in the southeastern United States and would perform several times for American troops over the years.

“During Operation Enduring Freedom, he entertained soldiers on ships and aircraft carriers in Bahrain and throughout Spain, Italy and Germany,” Nashville Publicity said.

According to Nashville Publicity, shortly before his death, Gregory completed an autobiography titled “A Bushel of Beans and a Bite of Tomatoes: The Life and Times of ‘The Funniest Man in America.’ The book is expected to be published by Post Hill Press in November.

The comic’s three nieces, who called him “Uncle Bubba,” Martha Anne, Mary Jane and Candie, along with their families, cared for Gregory during his final days and weeks, according to his publicist. The family requests privacy at this time.

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