If you were sitting alone at a gathering, Greg Walsh would be the first person to come up to you and start talking about anything…and everything. Gregory Thomas Walsh, 55, passed away at his residence September 25, 2014.
Greg was born in 1959 in the District of Columbia. In 1990, he married the love of his life Diane Cummings and soon after moved to Raleigh. He is preceded in death by his father Richard Thomas Walsh and his mother Eugenia Taylor Walsh, of Chevy Chase, Maryland.
Greg attended St. John's High School in northwest Washington, D.C. and the University of Maryland, where he played rugby and graduated in 1981. He was an avid sports fan who loved his Terrapins and Redskins and also enjoyed golf.
Family meant everything to Greg and he cherished the times he spent with them on vacations and during holidays. He never met a stranger and upon meeting him, you believed you were the most important person in the world to him. Playing horse shoes, singing karaoke, sitting poolside with friends, spending time with his children, golfing and gardening brought him great joy. He was always happy and his smiling face, easy laugh, and caring nature will be honored and greatly missed.
He is survived by: Diane Cummings Walsh and his children Evan and Sarah, all of the home; Brothers Taylor, David, and Andy Walsh (Anne) – all of Maryland; Sisters Sally Burke (David) of Washington, Megin Sussman of Maryland, Barbara Walsh (Jack Cummings) of New York, and Julie Jeffers (Ray) of Maryland. He also leaves behind many beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and a mother-in-law. Greg was lucky to have many close friends, too numerous to name. They all will miss him dearly. He also leaves behind his furry friend Lilly.
Greg worked in the insurance industry for more than 30 years and was employed by Pelnik Insurance in Cary, North Carolina.
He was involved in numerous volunteer activities throughout his life. He gave his time and talent for many years to the YMCA of the Triangle, serving on the Board of Directors for five years, the "We Build People" campaign, and coaching soccer and basketball. He also coached teams in the Wake County Basketball Association, the Raleigh Redhawks youth rugby, and recently was involved with the NC State University rugby team.
Visitation is Monday evening at the Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 30 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi, 11401 Leesville Rd., Raleigh. Burial is immediately following at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh.
In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial gift to a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 5, 2014
Cathy Wagner
Diane, Sarah and Evan, I just found out about Greg. I'm so sorry to hear about his passing, he was such a nice man and great father. I always loved to see your family together, he was always so happy to be with his family and it showed! Elizabeth and Gina and Keith all send their condolences as well. (Georgia and Harold's daughter)
October 20, 2014
Tony Monroe
My prayers are with you and your family
October 19, 2014
Reba Wilson
Diane, I am so sorry to hear about Greg. Your Mom called to tell me and it reminded me of when your Dad died so suddenly. My prayers to you and your children.
Love,
Reba Wilson
October 14, 2014
Bill Beyer
Greg and I roomed together my last semester at U of Md. It was the best semester of my college days. He was a great friend, one of a kind. My sincere condolences to his family.
October 14, 2014
Dick Foley
I am another member of the Foley family who lived next door to the Walsh family on Melrose Street in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Greg and his brother Andy were close in age to my brother Jon and me. The four of us were regular playmates as kids and had the entire block as our playground. As adults, our paths kept us miles apart and we saw each other infrequently, but Greg, with his outgoing and congenial nature, always made it so easy to pick up where we left off. My heart goes out to all the Walsh family.
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 14, 2014
Taylor Walsh
October 13, 2014
Diane, Evan, Sarah, and Greg's Siblings,
I grew up next door to Greg and the rest of the Walsh family. What a terrible loss, but what a great life! I was a few years older than Greg and always admired is upbeat and outgoing personality. Years could go by and I could pick up a conversation with Greg as if time hadn't passed. My thoughts and prayers to each of you, and especially to Greg!
Chris Foley
October 10, 2014
Robin Kent
Deepest sympathies for the family. I worked with Greg at Cam Harris a few years ago. Greg was always a good person to talk with- especially about Rugby.
October 8, 2014
Lisa Berwyn
I am so sorry to have just learned of Greg's passing. He taught me so much when we served together on the YMCA We Build People's campaign. He was a terrific guy and I'll miss him tremendously. May God hold you all in the palm of His hand and bring you peace.
October 4, 2014
dallas davis
I'm so sorry to get this news.Greg was a very loyal customer/friend for many years and I will miss him.Love and Prayers,Dallas Davis
October 3, 2014
Mike Hartnett
Upon graduating St. John's 37 years ago we all took different paths, some stayed together and some strayed but in the end St. John's played a vital role in reuniting many of us over and over. It was a pleasure seeing Greg at so many reunions as we did two years ago and then last year at the passing of a fellow alum. Greg was always true to his school, his friends and upon viewing this guestbook and photos his family was the biggest and most important part of his life. He will surely be missed.
October 2, 2014
Diane, my deepest sympathies to you, Evan & Sarah for your loss of Greg. All who knew him, loved him & miss him. I am so blessed to have known Greg and his infectious smile will be forever engrained in my memory of him.
The eulogy by Evan & Sarah was so heartfelt, I know he must have been the most awesome dad and I do know he was one of the greatest friends anyone could have. I wish you and your family the best through this most difficult time.
Gary Briel – MD/MOB Rugby
October 1, 2014
Gary Miller
September 30, 2014
Bob Perini
Diane - Kim and I wanted to express our deepest sympathies on the passing of Greg. I never know exactly what to say when a great friend leaves us early, but words never seem to do justice to the sadness I feel. I loved Greg, I loved his smile and his incredible personality. We will all miss him dearly.
Love, Bob & Kim Perini
September 30, 2014
Diane, We are so sorry for your loss, your are in our prayers. Barb and Ray Haus
September 30, 2014
Eileen Francis
I honestly think the first time I spoke with Greg was at Seven Oaks, long before the SHS years. As we chatted, I asked him if he worked at the same place as me, he seemed familiar. He said something like 'I just have one of those faces, I look familiar to everyone'. But I'm starting to think he did know everyone! We are so very sorry for your loss. We are all thinking of you, Sarah, and Evan.
September 29, 2014
Mark Despotes
I was blessed that I was able to spend so many afternoons together with Greg, sharing the joy in watching our sons play soccer together. We both always had to be a little distance from the field, so we would not be heard as loud by the referees. Always pacing, never sitting. My son Nick said it best, “all my memories of Mr. Walsh are happy ones”. Our prayers are with Diane, Sarah, and Evan.
September 29, 2014
Diane and family,
Shocked and saddened to hear of your loss. If I looked up "great guy" in the dictionary, Greg's photo would be there. We appreciated his vibrant enthusiasm and support for the bands we have played in over the years, and more so, getting to know him and his witty, inquisitive, fun loving personality. You, the children and the extended families are in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.
Kevin Carol and Alana Hughes
September 29, 2014
Marc Stalnaker
Greg (Gru) will be missed by all who knew him. My prayers and blessings are with all of his family.
September 29, 2014
Therese Harper Taylor
Juuliaaaa, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Therese Harper Taylor
September 29, 2014
James Hodgson
I am so sorry to hear of Greg's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences and may the good Lord comfort each of you during this very difficult time. Greg is a great guy and will be missed.
September 29, 2014
Angela
To Greg's family, friends and co-workers,
I had the opportunity to work with Greg the past few years as a carrier rep. He was always wonderful to work with, and he and I bonded over Rugby as I too played in college. He was a hard worker, always had a smile and a laugh to share and usually a joke or two. I am so sorry for your loss. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.
-Angela (Donegal Insurance)
September 29, 2014
Liz Hughes
Diane, you Evan and Sarah are certainly in my prayers. My heart goes out to you.
September 29, 2014
Billy Coy SJC '77
I also knew Greg at St John's, he would always be able to put a smile on your face when you felt pretty low. I am so privileged to have known him. I pray God will hold you and keep you during this time of grief.
September 29, 2014
Kathleen Cole
Diane, Evan and Sarah,
We were all so sorry to hear of your devastating loss. Please know we are all praying for your strength and peace during the days ahead.
Kathleen Cole (Fidelity)
September 29, 2014
Diane, Sarah and Evan,
Our thoughts and prayers to each of you. Your husband/dad had a heart of gold. I met Greg at Cameron Harris and then Leigh came to know Sarah and Evan. We are saddened by your loss and wanted you to know the number of people that Greg impacted in his short years. God bless.
Dan McGill and Family
September 29, 2014
Phil Sullivan
Wanted to offer our condolences on Greg's passing. A good man with a sense of humor. Truly a "friend" to many who will be missed greatly.
Phil Sullivan and Family
September 29, 2014
Sandy Yarosh
Diane, Sarah and Evan, Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
September 28, 2014
Raleigh Redhawks
We at the Raleigh Redhawks are deeply saddened by your death. We are so sorry for your families loss as well as our own loss. Coach Greg we miss you!
September 28, 2014
Mike Lessel
Dear Diane, Sarah and Evan: You know I don't need to write a word about Greg for each of you to understand how I feel about him and the three of you. Greg and I would talk every week about how important friendship and family is. After Lum died, Greg made incredible efforts to stay in touch with all his friends, and I did too, to a lesser extent though. We wanted to let them know how we felt and we wanted to strengthen the love and friendship and savor and appreciate that friendship. I never, never, ever anticipated or considered that he would be the one to go: my greatest and best friend. You see, Greg was the one who was always there. You know we have a group of 20+ great friends - but Greg was the core -- he was the glue - he was the one who was always there...in the middle of everything - Gru was always there...he was in every story we ever told. He's the one I thought would always continue to be there, but God evidently had other plans. He loved you all so very very much. I know you know that. Thinking about how happy you all were and are as a family was so crystal clear on the trips to Wyoming and California. I was so honored to be part of the group and so very proud of Greg and each of you. I love you all. His back was hurting lately and all he cared about was that it would be strong and pain free enough for another 10-15 years so he could enjoy playing golf with Evan. He marveled at how both you Sarah and Evan were so much more mature and focused at young ages than he and I and any of our friends were. He was just so very happy and proud. He loved you so very much, Diane. I know you know lots of funny stories from our past but he was ready to evolve and you were the one to help him get there -- he was madly in love with you and you had his devotion and respect - you changed (well, maybe 'modified') him in a wonderful way. He was so ready for marriage because he wanted to grow and you were the perfect partner for him and he for you. You helped him to mature and become ready to accept the life of the father in a family and he just had the utmost respect and admiration for you. He always told me how lucky he felt to be with you. I've always loved and enjoyed being around the entire Walsh family and they, and now you, have been very kind to me. I'm not sure how I go on without Greg and I can't imagine how much deeper that feeling and uncertainty is for you. However, Greg does live. He lives in each of us. Literally and figuratively with Evan and Sarah. I am just so honored and proud and happy that I got the chance to be his friend and go through some amazing journeys in life with him and he will live on through me, I can assure you of that. I loved Greg Walsh and I love each of you and I always will. Let's celebrate Gru every day and I hope I can continue to be part of the family going forward. Whatever I can do, just let me know. I miss you, Gru, and I will always love and remember you...every day of my life....Your friend, Mrs. Lessel's son (he knows what that meant), Mike
September 28, 2014
Jim Schilling
Diane,
I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
September 28, 2014
Mary Beth Kloiber
As a close friend of Andy & Anne, I am deeply saddened to hear about Greg. Andy, Anne and Lauren are devastated. I will be praying for Diane, Evan, and Sarah. May the Lord give great comfort.
September 28, 2014
Rick Jacobs
May God wrap his hands around all of you. I will miss that smile that made a lot of things ok.... So sorry for the loss.
September 28, 2014
Joyce Kreis
My son just told me of your loss and I am so sorry and sad. Greg coached my son in basketball at the YMCA years ago and my son played soccer against Evan in high school. Greg always came over and talked with us, genuinely interested in my son's progress. My husband remembers him from Indian Guides because Greg was always so friendly. My heart goes out to all of you.-
September 28, 2014
Anne Britt
Keith and I are so sorry to hear of your loss.
September 28, 2014
Marcy Rossi
Diane and family, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 28, 2014
Diane, Sarah and Evan, we were so sad to hear the news of Greg's death. We are praying for you all.
Julie, David and Summer Lee
September 28, 2014
Bonnie Thomson
Diane and family we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 28, 2014
Lou Turner
Diane, Evan and Sarah - you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Greg was a fine man and the tribute you wrote was wonderful and so accurate. He will be missed.
Russ, Lou, Ryan and Sarah Turner
September 28, 2014
Diane and family
We are so very sorry for your loss. What a great tribute of family pictures. We hope many great memories will help you through the difficult days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jeff and Monica Scofield
September 28, 2014
Karen Parker
To the "Wash Family"...My heart is heavy after reading the news. Greg was such a well rounded spirited individual. Although my only encounters with him were business related, he dedicated his time to ensure that his customers were satisfied. I will keep your family lifted in prayer... Karen Parker/Ultimate Delivery Solutions
September 28, 2014
Paul Maysak
Greg was such a great and important friend. His spirit will live long in my memories.
September 28, 2014
Alicia Eckhardt
I had the pleasure of meeting Greg at a Phi Mu parent event and honestly within an hour felt as if we were old friends. He was a warm and sincere person and the love for his family was very evident even in that short time we spent together. May God wrap you in love and faith as you journey through this heartbreaking time. You are in my prayers.
September 28, 2014
John and Mary
Diane, Sarah and Evan, our hearts are heavy with yours and our loss. Greg was a great guy and lots of fun! Our prayers are with you all!! May he rest in our Fathers loving arms.
September 28, 2014
Tina (Mary) Sito (Arrigo)
I have some really nice memories of Greg at Blessed Sacrament. So glad I was able to reconnect again at the BS 100th Anniversary. I am so very sorry for your loss. He will live on in all our memories, a kind and compassionate friend.
September 28, 2014
Tom & Pam Doane
I will really miss a good friend and a great guy. I always loved Greg's positive outlook and the time we spent together.
Pam and I will keep you all in our prayers and are here if you need anything at all.
September 27, 2014
Greg was a great guy and he was always their for you. He was my classmate at St. John's College High School in the class of 1977. He will be greatly missed by all. My prayers are with his family in this difficult time.
Alfred O. Buckley (Silver Spring, MD)
September 27, 2014
Monty Stepura
Dear Diane - I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My body will be in Westlake on Monday and Tuesday but my heart and soul will be with you in Raleigh.
September 27, 2014
Chris Higgins
Greg did have a contagious smile and laughter. Even though its been years since I have seen him, the memories of him in the Chevy Chase and DC area live on and always will. Whether they reflect his presence on a golf course, party, or a friends house, you always knew Greg was there. I send my deepest and sincere feelings to Andy and to Greg's family and God Bless you all.
Chris Higgins
September 27, 2014
Jeff Fuchs
Greg "Gru" was a great friend and got me started with Maryland Rugby along with Greg Howard "Old Man" at a Rugby party in my freshman year dorm, Allegany Hall. I am devastated by this horrible loss and will always hold Greg in the highest regard! Thoughts and Prayers to his Family and Loved ones.
September 27, 2014
Paddy Murray
Thanks GRU for the many laughs and great friendship.
UM rugby
September 27, 2014
Anne Walsh
What an amazing tribute to Greg you have written!!!! We are grieving with you Diane, Sarah and Evan. Our lives are richer because of Uncle Greg. We will always think of him with great fondness, remembering how he always made us smile and laugh, feel loved and special! And you are right, ... when you were with him, he made you feel like the most important person in the world. Greg's will remain alive in our hearts! We love you all so very much. We are praying for you during this very difficult time. Andy, Anne and Lauren Walsh
September 27, 2014
Bethke Family
Dear Diane and family, we are so very sorry for your loss. Greg is an old friend and we have many wonderful memories of him. May your own precious memories and the love of many friends and family give you some comfort in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy, Ron and Annabell Bethke
September 27, 2014
Patrick McNerney
I am sorry for your loss. I was fortunate to know Greg at St. John's and yes he was always guaranteed to have a smile and a kind word. Until we meet again may God hold you gently in the palm of his hand.
P. McNerney, SJC '77
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