Samuel Gregory Gilreath

On August 9, 2023, the world lost a truly incredible soul, Samuel Gregory Gilreath (Greg). He was the father of Jillene and Katelan Gilreath, and the brother of Chuck Gilreath.

Before becoming a father, he honorably and courageously served his country in the US Army. He transitioned to the US Forest Service, which became not only his career, but a crucial aspect of his life and identity. Greg was known for his boundless love for nature and frequented the myriad breathtaking trails of North Georgia and deep Appalachia. He connected especially with Vogel State Park, where he took his daughters to annual fishing rodeos, creating some of our dearest memories and traditions. He dedicated over three decades to his passion for the outdoors, and he kept every bit of that enthusiasm, even after retiring from the US Forest Service.

Greg also cherished an unparalleled love for animals. He cared for a multitude of pets throughout his life and shared the deepest bonds with his dogs, Charlie, Lilly, and Vincent, as well as his cat, Flossy. He was as deeply devoted to his pets as to his family and treasured the hours he spent outside, amid the verdant trees and sunshine, playing and bonding with his animals. He was also known for his impeccably green thumb: our dad could grow whatever he planted, from beds of lush, vibrant flowers, to the undisputed best okra in the South.

Most of all, Greg loved his family. From majestic wooded trails to the companionship of pets, to convivial fishing trips, to flawless fried okra, he instilled a spirit of unbounded love and wonder in each of our hearts. We will greatly and deeply miss him-for all the hikes he took us on, all the Western shows he loved to watch, all the passion he had for his career, and above all, how strong he was.
We will see you again one day, Dad, we love you.
 
Funeral Service Saturday, July 12, 2023, at 11:00 from the Henry-Cochran Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Newton officiating. Interment will follow in the Morganton Baptist Church Cemetery with Military Honors by North Georgia Honor Guard. The following Gentlemen will serve as Pallbearers, Steve Christopher, Todd Dilbeck, Johnny Mealer, Jimmy Hemming, Barry Crump and Shawn Taylor. Don Gibbs serving as Honorary Pallbearer.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 12, 2023, from 9:00 AM until the Funeral at 11:00 AM.
Cochran Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Samuel Gregory Gilreath. Sign the guest register and send condolences to the family at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.