Former San Francisco 49ers guard, Garland Gregory, passed away last night at the age of 92 following a brief illness. Gregory was one of only two living members of the 49ers inaugural team in 1946, and went on to play two seasons with the club. Over the years, he attended as many games as possible, including one this past season at Candlestick Park.
A native of Columbia, LA and graduate of Louisiana Tech University, Gregory became Tech's first Associated Press first-team all-America selection, in 1941. A WWII veteran and ex-serviceman, Gregory played with the Fourth Air Force team before signing a professional contract with San Francisco. During his two years with the club, he was named all-pro each season. Despite being considered an undersized guard at 5'10" and 185 lbs., Gregory combined his speed with finesse in his play.
Following his playing career, Gregory returned home and entered the coaching field. He became a tremendously successful high school coach and guided El Dorado (AR) High School to back-to-back state championships in 1958 and 1959.
Services to honor Garland Gregory will be held this Sunday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Ruston, LA.
