"Profoundly deplore grievous loss dearly beloved, noble-minded,
golden-hearted Louis Gregory, pride (and) example (to the) Negro adherents (of
the) Faith, keenly feel loss (of) one so loved, admired (and) trusted (by)
'Abdu'l-Baha. Deserves rank (of) first Hand (of) his race. Rising Baha'i
generation African continent will glory (in) his memory (and) emulate his
example. Advise hold memorial gathering (in) Temple (in) token recognition (of
his) unique position, outstanding services."
-Shoghi
Cablegram received August 6, 1951.
Dearly loved, universally respected Louis G. Gregory passed away on July 30,
1951. Although he had been frail in body for many months, the luminous spirit
and great heart were so apparent, so overwhelming, that none anticipated his
sudden departure.
Only a week before, he had arranged and carried out a meeting in his home in
Eliot, Maine, where he discussed the prophecies in the Bible, with their import
for these perilous times. The dozen or more who gathered there will forever
treasure this meeting which proved to be his last. Seated at his desk, his warm
and radiant smile welcoming everyone, with his indescribable spiritual dignity,
a manifest evidence of the world in which he lived, he carried on the meeting
with joy and radiance.
