H. Ava Gregory, R.N., 82, a longtime resident of LaGrande, died Nov. 30, 2002, in the Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande. She was born Nov. 29, 1920 in Enterprise to Robert and Hattie (Stockdale) Harper and was raised and educated in Halfway.

After high school, Mrs. Gregory attended college to become a registered nurse and married Dr. John B. Gregory in 1946. She worked as a nurse most of her life in La Grande, enjoyed outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, spending time with grandchildren, gardening, eating out, and playing with her dog.

She was a licensed pilot and a member of the United Methodist Church, Order of the Eastern Star, Union County Nile Club, La Grande Knife and Fork Club, Oregon Registered Nurses Association and the American Nurses Association. She was also a past director of nursing at Grande Ronde Hospital.

Mrs. Gregory is survived by her son, Robb Gregory of La Grande; a sister, Mina Hutchenson of Irvine, Calif.; a brother, Robert Harper of Pendleton, three grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents; and two sisters, Del Nora Sherill and Shannon Harper.

A Celebration of Life was held Dec. 5, followed by interment at the Grandview Cemetery in La Grande. The family suggests any memorials in memory of Mrs. Gregory may be directed to the United Methodist Church, 1612 Fourth Street, La Grande OR 97850.