Donna Gregory, a revered name in North Carolina journalism and a voice that brought clarity and compassion to countless news stories, has passed away following a courageous battle with stage 4 lung cancer. The former WRAL and WWAY news anchor, who had been a staple in North Carolina newsrooms for decades, was 63. Her passing marks the end of a career defined by journalistic integrity, community involvement, and tireless advocacy for health and wellness.
Early Career and Rise at WRAL
Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Donna Gregory began her career in journalism in the mid-1980s, eventually joining WRAL-TV in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1988. She quickly became a household name as the co-anchor of WRAL’s 5:30 and 11 p.m. weekday newscasts. Known for her warm on-screen presence and sharp reporting, Gregory was a trusted voice for viewers across the region.
During her tenure at WRAL, Gregory distinguished herself as more than just an anchor. In January 1992, she and WRAL photographer Jay Jennings traveled to Russia with the North Carolina Friendship Force. Their journey, which followed the collapse of the Soviet Union in December 1991, highlighted the cultural and political transitions occurring in the region. Gregory’s reporting from Russia brought an international perspective to WRAL’s coverage and showcased her ability to connect deeply with stories beyond local headlines.
She also worked on impactful documentary projects, including Kids Having Kids, an investigative piece examining the consequences of teen pregnancies in North Carolina. The documentary, which delved into the struggles faced by young mothers, became a cornerstone of Gregory’s legacy, demonstrating her commitment to tackling socially significant issues.
Sports and Community Engagement
Gregory’s versatility as a journalist extended to sports reporting and community events. She became a familiar face at NCAA Final Four events, co-anchoring WRAL sports specials and bringing her trademark professionalism to live sports coverage. Beyond the newsroom, Gregory helped organize WRAL’s annual coverage of the Raleigh Christmas Parade, a cherished community tradition.
Transition to Other Roles and Return to North Carolina
After leaving WRAL in 1996, Gregory pursued opportunities in other markets, including a prominent anchor role at KMSP-TV in Minneapolis. Despite her success in the Midwest, her deep connection to North Carolina brought her back to the region. She returned as a weekday anchor for WNCN (now CBS 17) in Raleigh, further solidifying her place as one of the state’s most respected journalists.
In 2019, Gregory joined WWAY-TV in Wilmington, where she anchored evening newscasts until 2024. Her colleagues at WWAY described her as a mentor and a dedicated professional who brought her wealth of experience to the newsroom, inspiring younger journalists to uphold the standards of excellence she exemplified.
Battle With Lung Cancer
In April 2024, Donna Gregory publicly revealed her diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer. Her announcement came as a shock to many, particularly since Gregory had never smoked, making the diagnosis all the more unexpected. In a heartfelt interview with WWAY, Gregory shared her determination to fight the disease while continuing to inspire others with her resilience and optimism.
Despite her diagnosis, Gregory maintained her commitment to her work and her passion for health advocacy. In 2012, she founded Coastal Health Innovations, a professional coaching business aimed at helping clients achieve their fitness and wellness goals. Her work in this field reflected her belief in the power of personal transformation and her desire to leave a positive impact beyond the newsroom.
Legacy and Tributes
Donna Gregory’s passing has left a profound void in the journalism community and among the countless viewers who trusted her over the years. Colleagues, friends, and community members have taken to social media to share their memories of Gregory and the impact she had on their lives.
“Donna was not only a phenomenal journalist but also a kind and genuine person who cared deeply about the stories she told and the people she worked with,” said a former WRAL colleague. “She made us all better.”
WWAY released a statement honoring Gregory’s contributions to the station and her unwavering commitment to her craft. “Donna Gregory was a cornerstone of our newsroom. Her dedication, professionalism, and compassion were unmatched. She will be deeply missed by her WWAY family and the community she served so well.”
A Life of Advocacy and Dedication
Throughout her career, Gregory was driven by a desire to inform, uplift, and empower her audience. Her work spanned a wide array of topics, from international reporting and investigative journalism to community events and health advocacy. She approached every story with a sense of purpose and a deep understanding of its importance to her viewers.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Gregory’s warmth and generosity were evident in her personal life. Friends and family remember her as a loving mother, a loyal friend, and a mentor who always took the time to nurture the next generation of journalists.
Funeral Arrangements and Ongoing Tributes
As of now, Gregory’s family has not announced details regarding her memorial service. They have requested privacy during this difficult time while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
Plans are underway to establish a scholarship fund in Gregory’s honor, aimed at supporting aspiring journalists and health advocates in North Carolina. The initiative reflects her lifelong commitment to education and her passion for empowering others to pursue meaningful careers.
Remembering Donna Gregory
Donna Gregory’s life and career exemplified the highest ideals of journalism: integrity, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of the truth. Her impact extended far beyond the stories she told, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities she served and the hearts she touched.
Her resilience in the face of illness and her unwavering dedication to her work serve as an inspiration to all who knew her. As North Carolina mourns the loss of a true icon, her memory will continue to shine brightly, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the importance of living a life of purpose and service.
