Passing of the Honorable James D. Gregg (Ret.)

The Honorable James D. Gregg (Ret.) passed away on September 10, 2024, on the golf course doing what he loved. Judge Gregg was a teacher first, and a judge second. In fact, he began his career as an elementary school teacher before going to law school. His emphasis on education was matched with his compassion for those less fortunate-particularly those who came through his courtroom-and his curiosity and genuine interest in, and concern for, those with whom he crossed paths.

Judge Gregg served as a United States Bankruptcy Judge in the Western District of Michigan for 27 years, beginning on June 1, 1987, until his retirement in 2014. He served as Chief Judge from 1997-2005, and from 2007-2013. He served on the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals from 2004 to 2007, and as a visiting judge throughout the country.

Judge Gregg served in many leadership positions for the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges, including President in 2002-2003. In addition, he served on the Board of Directors of the American Bankruptcy Institute for six years..

Judge Gregg served as the Education Chair for the Federal Bar Association Bankruptcy Steering Committee's summer bankruptcy seminar for many years. By the time he retired from the bench, he had been the education chair, speaker, or panelist at more than 160 educational seminars throughout the country. The Steering Committee honored Judge Gregg's commitment to education by creating the James D. Gregg Education Award given to members of the bar who demonstrate a commitment to the continuing education of bankruptcy practitioners.

Those who practiced in front of Judge Gregg benefitted from his classroom approach every time they appeared in his courtroom. To hear his clear and thorough explanations of his rulings was akin to attending "bankruptcy school" every day. Every member of our bankruptcy bar today benefits from the passion for continuing education Judge Gregg fostered and developed in the Western District of Michigan and beyond.

Judge Gregg is survived by his wife, Liz, and his son, the Honorable John T. Gregg and his family. Condolences to the family may be sent in care of the United States Bankruptcy Court, Clerk's Office, 1 Division Avenue N, Room 20, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. In keeping with Judge Gregg's wishes, there will be no public funeral or memorial service. Donations in Judge Gregg's memory may be made to: the National Audubon Society or Feeding America - West Michigan.