Gregory James Lunceford passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 59 on March 31st, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. He is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Yrina, and their precious children, Emma and Estela.

Greg was born on September 4th, 1966 to Mary Ellen Krauland and James Dale Lunceford in Kansas City, Kansas. Greg was a caring son beloved by his parents and treasured by his four siblings, Cindy, Mark, Scott, and Elizabeth.

He spent his youth and formative years growing up in the Kansas suburbs of Overland Park, Leawood, and Prairie Village. As a boy Greg was a ball of energy filled with curiosity, creativity, and playfulness. He loved to play games outside and build forts with his siblings, and 50 years later he did the same things with his girls. He liked to take things apart to discover how they worked and then put them back together. Greg made many friends while attending Curé of Ars grade school, Rockhurst High School, and the University of Kansas. He eventually moved to Chicago in his early 20s where he turned his affinity for the arts into a career that spanned over three decades.

As the Head Curator for the Chicago Cultural Center, Greg designed many unforgettable exhibitions with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). He championed visual, performing, and experiential programs that celebrated history and fostered social change. Greg strived to break down barriers, make creativity accessible in everyday spaces, and support community arts programs throughout his career.

Greg married the love of his life, Yrina Hernandez, in 2012. Together they built a beautiful family where he flourished in his most precious role as Papa to their two little loves, Emma Luna and Estela Soleil. Greg was the kind of father that many wished for - playful, nurturing, joyful and above all, loving. He was an outstanding cook who enjoyed hosting many celebrations with family and friends. His Paellas were the best! He made sure his home was filled with love, silliness, laughter, books, music and a LOT of art.

Greg enjoyed spending time outdoors, walks in the woods, gardening, and his passion for fishing anywhere there was water- a pond, a lake, or the ocean. He explored different parts of the world alone, with friends, and with family. One of his favorite things to do was to celebrate his birthdays at the beach and end the day by building a big fire (he was the best at it!).

Greg was a generous, brave, serious yet funny, thoughtful, adventurous, caring and beautiful person who wore his heart on his sleeve. He was a maker of magic who sparked creativity and a passion to look for the beauty in the world. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, papa, brother, uncle, and friend.

Greg’s farewell will be held Saturday April 4 at Hursen Funeral Home, 4001 W. Roosevelt Rd, Hillside, IL 60162 with Visitation from 1-3:30pm followed by Prayers of Farewell at 3:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions can be made to support Emma and Estela’s college education fund at www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-greg-lunceford