Janet McCreery Gregg, of East Falmouth, Massachusetts, a beloved mom, grandma, aunt, and friend, whose dry, witty, dedicated, and determined spirit touched the lives of many, passed away on Sunday, August 13th, 2023 at the age of 85 due to natural causes. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Janet's life was a testament to her passion for learning, her love for the sea, and her dedication to her community.
Janet's journey began in Newton, Massachusetts, to parents Edna R. McCreery (d. 1993) and George W. McCreery (d.1967), along with her brother Jack McCreery (d. 2010). She attended Beaver Country Day School, where she was heavily involved in Varsity sports (tennis and basketball) and served on many positions in student government, graduating with the class of 1955. She went on to achieve academic excellence at Bennington College, where she earned her degree in English with the class of 1959. Her commitment to education and her appreciation for literature were woven into the fabric of her being, shaping her insights and interactions throughout her life.
A force to be reckoned with on the open waters, Janet was an accomplished sailor for much of her youth, and young adulthood. She sailed her beloved Cape Cod Knockabout, “Flying Fish,” with both the Menauhant Yacht Club (MYC) and in regional competitions through Falmouth Yacht Club (FYC) in which she was a frequent trophy winner. She spent summers both, in the East Falmouth community of Menauhant with her family, and while married, on Naushon Island, with her then husband Roger. Janet was involved in many aspects of the Menauhant community for many years to follow. The sea was her playground and her sanctuary, and she embraced the challenges and the joys of sailing with a fervor that inspired all who knew her.
Her love for the ocean was mirrored in her love for community and volunteerism. In her years while married to Roger L. Gregg (d. 2004) of Milton, she volunteered with the China Trade Museum (now Forbes House Museum), and the First Parish Unitarian Church in Milton, Massachusetts, where her contributions enriched the lives of many. In addition to volunteering, she raised three children, held a passion for all things weather, was an avid reader, knitter, and gardener. While living in Menauhant in later adulthood she volunteered time to enrich both community and yacht club activities. She loved being part of the community she grew up with and was overjoyed to be living so close to the ocean, loved walking the dirt roads with her dog Holly, and making Beach Plum jam every summer.
Janet's legacy is etched in the hearts of her family and friends. She is survived by her three children and their families: Her son William Gregg along with his wife Monique, her daughter Sarah Gorham (Gregg), and son Andrew Gregg, along with his wife Lauri. She is also survived by her niece Sally Chisholm, her nephew Jay McCreery, and predeceased by her niece Susan Carter. Janet also leaves behind 5 grandchildren whom she adored; Cameron and Annika Gregg, Robin and Julianna Gorham, and Hannah Gregg. She enjoyed laughter and life-long friendships with many in the Menauhant community. She also had the rare opportunity to develop deep and meaningful relationships in her later life with friends in Mort, Marge, Michelle, Tim, Ellen, Ronnie, and, of course, her dear friend Carl.
A celebration of Janet's life will be held in the Summer of 2024 at the Coonamessett Inn located in Falmouth, date to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Falmouth Harbor Sailing School at Falmouth Harbor in her honor, to continue her legacy of the joys of sailing, community service, and embracing the beauty of the natural world.