Harlett Joe Gregory, age 80, of Frankfort, Kentucky, passed away on November 28, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky at the VA Hospital. Born on July 7, 1945, in Lawrenceburg, he was the son of the late Earl Gregory and Genevieve (West) Gregory.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years as an MOS 57F. He was drafted into the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968—an experience that shaped him deeply and remained a lifelong source of pride. He rarely went anywhere without his Vietnam Veteran hat. After his military service, he retired from Trane in Lexington, Kentucky.

Joe lived a full, spirited, and unforgettable life. In his younger years, he loved to roller skate, dance, and—by his own admission—chase women. He spent countless years at the American Legion, surrounded by friends, fellowship, and routine. At home, he enjoyed watching Westerns and M*A*S*H, two of his favorites.

Among Joe's greatest joys was his family. He leaves behind two sons, Jamie Gregory of Lawrenceburg, KY and Joe "Bear" Gregory of Lawrenceburg, KY; and a granddaughter who was one of his biggest prides, Kassie (Bobby) Anglin of Lawrenceburg, KY. Joe carried a photo of Kassie in his front shirt pocket for decades and would proudly show it to anyone willing to take even a quick look. Joe is survived by his sisters Dorothy Fleming of Lawrenceburg, KY, Margie Drury of Lawrenceburg, KY, and Phyllis Gregory of Lexington, KY; and a host of nieces and nephews he loved.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Charlie Gregory and Earl Thomas Gregory.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Monday, December 8th, at Ritchie and Peach Funeral Home and from 10AM until the time of service at 11AM Tuesday, December 9th. Burial will follow at Lawrenceburg Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bobby Anglin, Burt Simmons, Kevin Dean, David Scott Drury, James Dunn, and Kenny Hooper.

Joe's legacy of service, humor, grit, and heart will live on in the many who loved him. His family finds comfort in the promise of John 3:16.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home, Lawrenceburg, KY. Condolences to the family may be expressed at ritchieandpeach.com