Gregory Michael Hammond, age 28, of St. Louis, passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was born December 3, 1997, in Alma, Michigan, the son of Sheila Marie Troyer and Gregory Mark Lyon, who devoted their lives to loving and caring for him.
Gregory was a cherished son, brother, grandson, uncle, and friend who touched the lives of many with his vibrant spirit and infectious smile. To know Gregory was to love him. He was a ray of sunshine to those who loved and cared for him, showing incredible strength throughout his life while continuing to smile even on the hardest of days.
Gregory had a special way of keeping everyone around him on their toes, whether it was his family, caregivers, or case managers. His joyful laughter and mischievous grin were trademarks of his personality. His hugs were known for their warmth—and occasionally came with one of Gregory’s memorable headbutts.
In 2024, Gregory graduated with honors from Alma High School, an accomplishment that made his family incredibly proud.
Gregory loved horror films and listening to The Creepy Pasta Podcast. Some of his happiest times were spent going for walks with his grandmother, taking trips to the Discovery Museum with his nieces and nephew, and enjoying long car rides with his mother while listening to Bon Jovi and Aerosmith. Though Gregory’s life was far too short, the impact he made on those around him was profound.
Gregory is survived by his mother, Sheila Marie Troyer; father, Gregory Mark Lyon; grandmother, Kathleen Troyer, who treasured him deeply; sisters, Chloe Durocher (Leo Durocher) and JoJo Eilts (Gabe Eilts); nieces, Freya Durocher and Alaska Eilts; nephew, Atlas Eilts; uncle, Rex Winkelman (Crystella Winkelman); and cousins, Levi Winkelman and McKinley Winkelman.
Gregory was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandmother, Edna Nichols; paternal grandmother, Patricia Ann Lyon; maternal great-aunts, Mary Jo and Debra Jewell; maternal great-uncle, Kenneth Troyer; maternal great-aunt and uncle, Bonnie Lou and Richard Overby; and cousin, Kobey Jewell.
Gregory’s family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who knew, loved, cared for, and supported him throughout his journey. Your love and friendship meant the world to Gregory, and he carried that love in his heart every day.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Gregory’s memory are encouraged to consider a donation to Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor or the Ronald McDonald House, both of which helped Gregory and his family on numerous occasions throughout his life.
A Celebration of Gregory’s Life will be held at a later date.
Gregory will be profoundly missed, but his joyful spirit, unforgettable smile, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.
