William L. Gregory, Jr., age 56, of Scranton, PA. and a former New York City resident for 27 years, died late Monday evening, June 21, 2004 at the VNA Hospice Unit at Community Medical Center, Scranton, following a lengthy illness. Born May 24, 1948 in Moosic, PA. He is the son of Joy Thompson-Backus of Scranton and the late William L. Gregory, Sr. He was the step-son of the late Jim Backus. He was a member the Court Street United Methodist Church in Scranton where he served on the board of trustees. He was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School class of 1966. He also graduated from the Humboldt Institute of Minnesota majoring in traffic and travel management. He earned his bachelors degree in business from the Queensborough Community College City University of New York. He was employed as a buyer for several pharmaceutical companies in New York. He was an Army veteran having served for two years. Memorial Contributions can be sent to: VNA Hospice 301 Delaware Avenue Olyphant, Pa 18447 or Court Street United Methodist Church 816 Court Street Scranton, Pa 18508 He is survived by one sister: Tami Bentler and husband Jay of Gouldsboro, PA.; three brothers: Scott Gregory of Hilton Head Island, SC., James Backus, Jr. and wife Terri of Scranton, PA. and Mark Backus of Gouldsboro, PA.; two nephews: James John Backus and Jeremy Bentler Cremation took place from the Maple Hill Crematory, Archbald, PA. Friends called Thursday, June 24, 2004 at the Court Street United Methodist Church from 5-8 pm. Funeral arrangements were entrusted under the care of the Carmine J. Louis C. Parise Funeral Home, Inc., Farview and 41st Streets, Carbondale, PA.