Former Riverheads HS Athletics Legend Adam Wayne Gregory Passes Away at 43 in Staunton, Leaving Behind His Wife of 14 Years and Their Son

Rest In Peace, Adam Wayne Gregory

December 24, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 24, 2026

Adam Wayne Gregory, a beloved Riverheads High School alumnus and standout athlete, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2026, at his residence in Staunton, Virginia, at 43 years old.

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Born on December 12, 1982, in Staunton to Rocky Wayne Gregory and Brenda Sue Myers Depriest, Adam grew up with a deep connection to his community and school.

He graduated from Riverheads High School in 2002 and left an unforgettable legacy in athletics.

Adam was a key player on the Riverheads football team that made history in 2000 by winning the state championship, the first football team in the county to claim a state title.

As a defensive tackle, he earned all-state honors that year and was a multi-year all-district and all-region performer. His strength and dedication helped define the Gladiators’ success on the field.

He was equally dominant in wrestling.

As a heavyweight, Adam racked up more than 120 career wins and capped his senior year with a perfect record, bringing home the Virginia state championship in 2002.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Riverheads sports, he was inducted into the school’s Red Pride Hall of Fame in 2009.

The Riverheads Red Pride Hall of Fame shared a heartfelt tribute:

City County Sports also remembered him warmly, posting a photo from Riverheads High School and noting his remarkable athletic career, including his role on that historic 2000 championship football team and his wrestling state title.

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Beyond his achievements in sports, Adam lived a grounded life.

For nine years, he worked as a salesman for Frito-Lay, where he built strong relationships with colleagues and customers.

He cherished simple joys like fishing, playing pool, bowling, and riding his motorcycle. These hobbies brought him peace and happiness outside of work and family.

Adam is survived by his wife of fourteen years, Heather Alison Daniel Gregory; their son, Jacob Edward Gregory; and his stepsister, Brenda Gail Bryant.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Rhonda Sue Gregory Fowler, and his stepmother, Lanora Bryant Gregory.

, at Cherryvale United Methodist Church in Staunton, with Reverend Jonathan Greer officiating.

Adam Wayne Gregory’s death has deeply affected those who knew him, from former teammates and coaches to friends and family in the Staunton area.

He will be remembered as a fierce competitor, a dedicated family man, and a true Gladiator who embodied pride, strength, and community spirit.

His legacy at Riverheads High School and in the hearts of many will live on.

Rest In Peace, Adam Wayne Gregory

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