Steven B. Gregory

Steven Bruce Gregory, 96, of Benton, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on June 17, 2026. He was born in Mountainburg, Arkansas, on July 3, 1929, to Clarence and Lula Adelaid Gregory. Steven lived a life defined by kindness, humility, and service to others, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Steven proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy. When he was recruited, he was promised the opportunity to see the world, with Hawaii being one of the places he especially hoped to visit. Although Hawaii remained just out of reach, he came close...waving at it as he passed by on his way to Japan. His time in the Navy became one of the many meaningful chapters in a life marked by service and adventure. He was also a proud member of the Masonic brotherhood, where he valued the fellowship and brotherhood it provided.

For more than a decade, visitors walking through the front doors of Saline Health System were greeted by the same familiar voice: warm, talkative, and always ready with directions or a story. For children, there was often an added bonus: a teddy bear delivered with the enthusiasm of someone who never tired of giving them away.

That voice belonged to Steven Gregory, affectionately known throughout the hospital as “Mr. Steven,” a longtime volunteer. Steven began volunteering in 2005 and went on to serve 8,912 hours- a number he tracked with meticulous care. He followed rules the way some people follow recipes, with precision and pride. Logging his hours wasn’t just a requirement; it reflected how seriously he took his commitment to the hospital and the people who walked through its doors.

Over the years, he held various roles, including delivering checks to team members, assisting with customer service training, and serving in the surgery waiting room. But the front desk became his place, where he found purpose, routine, and endless opportunities for conversation.

Of all the routines he kept, the one that mattered most to him involved the small bears volunteers stitched by hand. He checked the drawer often, making sure it was full and ready for the next child who needed a distraction or a smile. Steven loved what he did, and anyone who knew him could see how genuine that love was. He will be remembered not only for the many hours he gave in volunteer service, but for the kindness, joy, and friendship he shared with everyone he encountered.

Steven’s life was one of service- to his country, his community, and the countless people who crossed his path. His kindness and willingness to give of himself left an impression that will not soon be forgotten.

Steven was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty Lou; his parents; and his son, Vincent Louis Gregory.

He is survived by his son, Michael (Linda) Gregory; granddaughters, Caitlin (James) Lawrence, Sophie (Peter) Gregory, Greer Gregory, and Isabel (Corey) Gregory; great-grandchildren, Adrienne, Logan, Eva, and Varya; and many close family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the extraordinary life of Steven Bruce Gregory on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 1:00 p.m. Those whose lives were touched by Steven’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering servant’s heart are encouraged to attend as they gather to honor a man who made the world a little brighter, one smile at a time.