Gregory Anderson Obituary

Gregory G. Anderson

Folly Beach - Gregory George Anderson, 78, of Folly Beach, sailed into eternal life on March 13, 2026.

He is survived by his wife, Dr. Donna D. Johnson; his brother and best friend, Michael Anderson (Diana) of Winter Park, Florida; and his sisters-in-law, Rene Anderson of Alexandria, Virginia and Olivia Mackey (Wayne Anderson) of Clemmons, North Carolina. Greg cherished his nieces and nephews as if they were his own children: Jesse Anderson (Leslie) of Waynesville, NC; Lt. Col. Michael Anderson (Major Megan Wood) of Alexandria, VA; Ali Anderson (Juan Valencia) of Orlando, FL; Michaela Anderson of Sausalito, CA; Victoria Bagnell of Orlando, FL; Jonathan Shannon (Brittany) of Galivants Ferry, SC; and Jessica Kirk (Michael Grayson Kirk) of Charleston SC. He also leaves behind 6 great-nieces and nephews. He had a devoted canine companion, Connor, who was always by his side.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Andy and Barbara Anderson, and his brothers, Wayne and Steve Anderson.

As a child, Greg contracted polio, having been born before a vaccine was available. He refused to let this challenge define him or limit his ambitions. With determination and strength of character, he persevered. After the loss of his father at age 17 and his brother Wayne nine years later, Greg came to deeply value life's fleeting nature and embraced each moment fully.

His love of the sea led him to leave the corporate world and pursue a life as a captain. He sailed private yachts and later worked in private charting for many years. After meeting his wife, Greg chose to remain ashore, managing a marina in San Diego that catered to mega yachts. Following their move to South Carolina, he devoted himself to supporting his wife's career. He was instrumental in her rise in academic medicine, where she became the first female Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and he proudly supported her service on numerous national boards. He was, above all, her greatest champion.

Greg believed deeply in kindness, respect, and community. In San Diego, he founded the "Little Race for Little People," raising funds to support families with newborns in neonatal intensive care. He also worked with city leaders to help develop the mega yacht industry. After settling on Folly Beach, he served for many years on the planning commission, guided by his wish to "keep Folly Folly." He also served as President of Charleston Oceanfront Villas for more than 25 years.

Greg would not wish to be remembered for accolades or achievements, but rather as a man who lived a life of adventure-one who loved telling stories, spending time with friends, and, most of all, loving and mentoring his nieces and nephews.

His celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 11:00 a.m. at Charleston Oceanfront Villas. Lunch and refreshments will follow immediately at Loggerhead's. Arrangements are being handled by Charleston Cremation Center and Funeral Home. The family requests donations in his honor to Spoleto USA (spoletousa.org) or MUSC College of Medicine Education Building (fundraise.musc.edu/give/372942)

We invite you to share a memory and sign our guest book.