It is with the deepest sorrow and utmost regret that we announce the heartbreaking passing of our colleague, son, brother, husband, father, and dear friend, Owen William Gregg, who sadly left us on the evening of Saturday, August 2, 2025.
Owen’s loss is profoundly felt not only by those closest to him but by an entire community that cherished the kindness, warmth, and sincerity he brought into every space he entered. Known for his unwavering love and devotion to his family, Owen’s life revolved around his wife, Dawn, and their beloved daughters, Callie and Cara. He protected them with his whole heart—right to the very end—and his pride in them radiated from everything he did. His love was quiet but powerful, a deep current that never wavered.
Owen was the kind of man who lifted those around him. He faced every hardship—especially his illness—with grace, humility, and an unshakable determination not to let it define him. His refusal to surrender, his relentless optimism, and his constant concern for the wellbeing of others set him apart. His was a character defined by integrity, empathy, and perseverance. In a world that too often rewards the loudest voice, Owen’s quiet strength made the biggest impact.
There is a word that continues to echo in the countless messages we have received since his passing: “gentleman.” He was both—a true gentleman in every classic sense of the word, and a gentle man who exuded kindness, patience, and warmth. He was deeply respected and genuinely liked by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Professionally, Owen went far beyond the expectations of his role. At Rainey and Gregg, he was not just a valued colleague, but a cornerstone of our team. He worked with heart, offering thoughtful advice and unwavering support to clients and coworkers alike. He made time for everyone and turned work relationships into lasting friendships. His presence in the office was uplifting; his return from periods of illness was always a moment of quiet joy for us all. The daily banter, the inside jokes, and the walks to the Fairhill Centre with Jason and Ryan became cherished rituals. His self-deprecating humor and joy in the small things reminded us of what truly matters.
Outside of work, football was Owen’s great passion. He played from a young age, rising through Star United, Ballymena United, and Wakehurst, and later continuing in Saturday morning leagues, where he built friendships that endured for life. The outpouring of tributes from local teams—many of which he never even played for—reflects the deep and widespread respect he earned through his sportsmanship, loyalty, and humility.
And then, of course, there was Glentoran. A love passed down through generations, Glentoran was more than a team to Owen—it was tradition, family, and pride. From attending matches as a child with his father and brothers, to sharing the stands with his own daughter Callie, football became a way of marking time, cherishing memories, and holding on to hope. Even at his most unwell, Owen made the journey to matches, committed to living fully and joyfully in every moment he could.
We draw strength from Owen’s legacy: his professional dedication, his personal courage, his fierce love for family, and his refusal to let illness define him. He was, and always will be, a source of inspiration to all of us who knew him. His memory will be a quiet voice urging us to be better, kinder, stronger.
As a mark of respect and to allow our team to grieve together, Rainey and Gregg will be closed on Friday, August 8, 2025, so all staff may attend Owen’s funeral. Alternative arrangements for clients and key collections will be announced shortly.
We want to thank every individual who has reached out with words of love and support—your kindness has given great comfort to Owen’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly painful time. Like so many small businesses, our workplace is more than just an office—it is a second home, and Owen was its heart.
Anyone who wishes to visit, call, or message to pay tribute to Owen is warmly welcome.
Rest in peace, Owen.
You were deeply loved, you are deeply missed, and you will never be forgotten.
“Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”
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