ABOUT MICHAEL

James Michael Gregory, known to most as Michael, is a lifelong resident of Simpson County with deep roots in the community he calls home. Raised in Franklin, he graduated from Franklin-Simpson High School in 2005, where he built friendships and values that still guide him today. His life has always been centered on the principles of faith, family, and hard work.

He and his wife, Marie, have shared 18 years together and are raising two sons, Cooper (18) and Owen (9). Family is at the heart of Michael’s life, and his journey has been shaped by both moments of joy and times of challenge.

One of the most defining moments came in 2008, when his mother, Debbie, passed away suddenly the night before Cooper’s first birthday. What should have been a time of celebration became a time of heartbreak. The loss hit Michael hard, and he struggled with PTSD in the months that followed. Instead of letting that pain defeat him, he leaned on his faith, his family, and the values his mother had instilled in him.

Debbie was remembered for her strength and her willingness to help others without hesitation. Michael carries that same spirit forward. Out of his loss came a renewed purpose: to honor his mother’s legacy by working harder, relying on his faith, and committing himself to service. Years later, Michael and Marie created Debbie’s Tree, a nonprofit in her memory that provides gift cards to first responders in times of urgent need. For Michael, every card that leaves that tree is a way of keeping his mother’s spirit alive in the community she loved.

For more than 15 years, Michael has owned and operated Sharper Image Tree & Landscape. What began as mowing a few yards has grown into a respected local business employing 10 people and serving countless families and businesses across Simpson County. Michael also owns Michael Gregory Properties and M Squared Properties. As a small business owner, he understands perseverance and the responsibility of treating people fairly. For him, integrity and accountability are not slogans; they are the foundation of every decision he makes.

Service has always been central in Michael’s life. He serves as a Deacon at Woodburn Baptist Church, supports the Boys & Girls Club, and gives time and resources to local schools, parks, and youth sports teams.

Outside of work and service, Michael and his family share a passion for ATV motocross racing. For the past four years, they have traveled across the country to compete against top racers, learning lessons of resilience, teamwork, and determination along the way.

Now, Michael is ready to bring the same values that have guided his life—fairness, integrity, service, and faith—to his role as East District Magistrate. A conservative voice for Simpson County, he believes in responsible spending, keeping taxes low, protecting traditional values, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people it serves.

Just as importantly, Michael believes in stronger cooperation between county and city governments. He knows perseverance is essential when tackling tough issues, and empathy is vital for understanding different perspectives. By listening carefully, treating others with respect, and seeking common ground, he intends to help bridge divides and make sure Simpson County and Franklin work together for the good of every family and neighborhood.



Michael’s story is not only about personal success. It is about a lifelong commitment to his neighbors, his county, and the values that hold the community together. As he seeks to serve Simpson County as East District Magistrate, his vision is simple: to represent his community with honesty, to make fair decisions, and to always put people first.