James Gregory, aka “The Funniest Man in America,” passed away at the age of 78

James Gregory 1280.jpg

Photo via James Gregory’s Facebook Page

On Wednesday night, comedy legend James Gregory Jr, also known as “The Funniest Man In America” passed away due to cardiac complications. He was 78 years old.

The Georgia native saw massive success throughout his career. his “down home, common sense” humor had him touring all across the country.

He was a radio icon for local broadcasts as well as popular syndicated programs. He once turned down an appearance on The Tonight Show because he refused to “speed up” his delivery and would go on to become the most frequent guest ever on The Nashville Network.

Related Stories
Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
FFA Program Specialist Ashli Weinrich highlights how the FFA Next Gen Conference helps ag students explore career opportunities and build skills for the future.
Vanessa Wood shares more about Ag Women Connect, the importance of uplifting women in agriculture, and upcoming projects designed to highlight stories across rural America.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.
Join host Allen Treadwell and the Hayden Outdoors crew plus landowners across the country as we bring you exciting adventures on the land with the most amazing properties for sale and learn what it means to broker these magnificent properties.
Madison Brown grew up on the road and now invites viewers to follow along with her as she continues to indulge her love of exploring new places, including behind-the-scenes at big events and tourist attractions, and celebrity interviews with the likes of country star Toby Keith, former NBA player Karl Malone, former MLB pitcher Greg Maddux, and “Brady Bunch” star Christopher Knight (Brown’s uncle).
Tom McComas became involved with toy trains by accident and with reluctance. But his passion led to the creation of “I Love Toy Trains,” which quickly became TM’s best-selling title and one of the bestselling children’s video series in the U.S.
The internationally-known “King of Polka,” 18-time Grammy award winner for “Best Polka Album,” and bandleader of arguably the most popular polka band in America—Jimmy Sturr—is taking to the stage for another slate of shows made for his fans and polka lovers across the country.