Greg Ollis

To remember the life of John Gregory “Greg” Ollis, 53, is to remember the hope and unwavering positivity he carried into every situation. Born on December 30, 1971, in Rocky Mount, NC, Greg built a lasting home in the mountains of Candler, where he lived with quiet strength, creative passion, and boundless love for his family. On August 1, 2025, Greg’s work on this earth was done and peacefully the Lord called a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle home — but the love he gave and the light he left behind will continue to guide us every day.

On September 15, 1990, Greg and Christi’s love story began the moment their eyes met, igniting a connection that would last a lifetime. On November 22, 1992, they exchanged vows, a sacred bond that would become a living example of infinite love and dedication. Each was the other’s guiding light—bringing sparkle to one another’s gaze and causing hearts to flutter whenever they entered a room, even three decades later. Together, they had the remarkable ability to chase away darkness and lift spirits on the dreariest of days. Their individual personalities complemented each other perfectly, allowing both to flourish and grow in the warmth of their shared love.

Greg’s family was the only thing he loved more than football and the Michigan Wolverines. He was a soulmate, a proud father, and a deeply affectionate grandfather. His world revolved around his treasured wife and soulmate of 32 years, Christi, their daughter Gabrielle (James), and their grandchildren—Sam, Everly, and the soon-to-arrive Selah Grace. Year after year, Greg found his greatest peace building sandcastles and walking the ocean’s shoreline with them, the sound of waves echoing the rhythm of his heart.

Greg was a gifted artist—an avid creator who brought imagination to life through his woodworking. In his hands, simple pieces of wood became beautiful masterpieces, each one shaped by love, intention, and an eye for quiet beauty. His passion for design was matched only by the joy he found in sharing it with others.

Greg’s workshop may have held his creations, but his heart held the relationships that became his lasting legacy. He shared a particularly special bond with his nephew Avary, serving not only as an uncle but as a mentor, music companion, and lifelong role model. Their shared love for guitar and live concerts created memories that will be cherished for generations. Greg also never passed up a holiday basketball challenge from his nephews—always stepping onto the court with a grin, and in his eyes, never once tasting defeat.

Greg attended Erwin High School, and his meticulous character enhanced his career as a paving technician, working for A Quality Paving the past 14 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and humble character.

Greg was welcomed home by those who passed before him: his infant son, Anthony “Paul” Ollis; his grandparents, Robert and Dollie Ollis; and Dolly Farmer; John Worrell; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William “Red” and Dianne Reeves; and his nephew, Dwayne Caison.

In addition to his wife, daughter and grandchildren are Greg’s parents, Randy and Kathy Ollis, and Judy and Eddie Todd; brothers, Dewayne Smith and Jeremiah Ollis; sisters, Carla Matthews (Johnny) and Linda Willingham; sister-in-law, Beth Langenderfer (Gabe); and brothers-in-law, Joey Caison (Beannie), Darrell Caison (Holly), Mike Caison (Sharon), and Mark Reeves (Tonya) are left to carry on his legacy.

He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Jacob, Jared, and Jackson Smith; Kaitlyn and Bradlee Jones; Maddason, Bradden, Avary, and Prestyn Matthews; Westin Ollis; Hannah Willingham; Morgan Willingham; Braeden and Grant Langenderfer; Casey Caison; David Caison; Tobi Holbrook; Heidi Etter; Cameron, Jonathan, and Benjamin Reeves; and great niece, Arabella Smith

A time of visitation and remembrance will be held Wednesday, August 6, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue in Asheville. Funeral services will follow on Thursday, August 7, at 2:00 p.m., with burial immediately after at New Morgan Hill Church Cemetery.

Greg will be carried to his resting place by pallbearers Dewayne Smith, Jared Smith, Bradlee Jones, and Bradden, Avary, and Prestyn Matthews. Serving as honorary pallbearer is Mike Suttles.

Greg’s life was a testament to enduring love, quiet artistry, and the deep joy of family. Though he left this world way too soon, the legacy he shaped with his heart and hands will live on in every life he touched.