It is with deep sorrow that the Six Mile Regional Library District announces the passing of our longest-serving former employee, Gregg McGee. Gregg, a Granite City, Illinois native, dedicated over four decades of his life to the library, leaving an indelible mark on our institution and the community we serve.

Gregory Lee McGee, born on January 16, 1947, to Marvin Lee and Conleth Margaret (O’Brien) McGee, passed away on December 24, 2023, at the age of 76. His journey through life was marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for knowledge and communication.

Gregg’s early life took an unexpected turn when, drafted during the Vietnam War, he found himself assigned to company clerk duties in Furth, Germany after an injury redirected his military career. Returning home with government assistance for education, he enrolled at SIUE, where he played a pivotal role in launching the student-run radio station WSIE-FM, later becoming its station manager.

Despite not envisioning a college education, Gregg’s life took another turn when he secured a temporary job at the local library. Little did he know, this would be the beginning of a lifelong commitment. Over the years, Gregg’s impact extended beyond the library as he initiated his own local cable show, “Coffee Break with Gregg McGee,” providing a platform for local experts and occasionally featuring national celebrities.

Simultaneously, the library was evolving, and Gregg played a crucial role in its expansion. He served as branch manager when the first branch facility opened in Nameoki Village Shopping Center. Despite facing challenges, including the need for a master’s degree in library science, Gregg persevered. With the support of the library, both he and his brother-in-law earned their Master of Library Science degrees from the University of Missouri.

As an assistant manager with the Six Mile Regional Library District, Gregg continued to enrich the community by sponsoring visits from local and national writers. His commitment to literature was further exemplified through his enduring friendship with acclaimed writer Robert Owen Butler, a Granite City native.

Gregg’s retirement, after an astounding forty-three years of service, was due to health reasons. During retirement, he enjoyed gardening and cherished moments with his beloved dog, Bo. A faithful member of several churches, Gregg’s health unfortunately prevented him from attending in person.

Gregg McGee’s legacy lives on through his three sisters, a brother, and numerous extended family members and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Six Mile Regional Library District, for masses, or to favorite charities.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. on Saturday, January 13, at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road, Granite City. A funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 2606 Washington Avenue, Granite City, with burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.

Gregg McGee’s legacy is not only imprinted in the history of the Six Mile Regional Library District but also in the hearts and minds of those he touched throughout his remarkable journey. We remember him with gratitude, respect, and a profound sense of loss. May he rest in peace.

Obituary: https://www.irwinchapel.com/obituaries/Gregory-Lee-Mcgee?obId=30239981#/obituaryInfo

The January 2024 StoryWalk® at Worthen Park is in Memory of Gregory McGee