Donna Gregory, WWAY News Anchor, Dies from Cancer
By Paul Greeley
817-578-6324, Paul@NewsBlues.com
Donna Gregory, the morning and noon news anchor for WWAY, Morris Multimedia’s ABC, CBS and CW affiliated stations in Wilmington, North Carolina, died on Tuesday surrounded by her loved ones, who stood steadfastly by her side as she faced a courageous battle against Stage 4 lung cancer.
Diagnosed in early April, Gregory confronted her illness with grace and determination, undergoing immunotherapy and chemotherapy while remaining a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Gregory’s extraordinary journalism career spanned decades, taking her across the globe to cover some of the world’s most significant events.
In February 2019, she came out of semi-retirement to join WWAY, stepping in during anchor Randy Aldridge’s own cancer battle.
Her temporary role quickly became permanent, and she endeared herself to the team and viewers alike as a trusted anchor and storyteller.
Gregory highlighted Extraordinary People of the Cape Fear, a franchise that aired monthly on WWAY.
Prior to Wilmington, Gregory worked in local news in Raleigh, Oklahoma City, and several cities in Illinois. She also co-hosted Everyday Living, the first national newscast on the UPN Network.
In the early 2000’s, she served as an anchor/correspondent for MSNBC, the TODAY show, CNBC and Dateline and NBC Nightly news.
Gregory’s influence extended far beyond the anchor desk. She was a mentor to young journalists, a source of wisdom and encouragement, and a cherished friend to many in our newsroom.
A mother of four children and grandmother of two, Gregory enjoyed cooking, volunteering, yoga and other fitness activities.
She served on the Emeritus Board of NC Theatre in Raleigh, and the Coastal Advisory Council of Make-a-Wish Eastern NC.
At a later date, WWAY will honor Donna’s remarkable life and career with a tribute befitting her legacy.