Gregory Alan Gookins, age 61 of Indianapolis, IN, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026 at his home.

Greg was born on September 3, 1964 in Lafayette, IN. He was the son of Jerry Gookins and Suzanne (Montgomery) Gookins. Greg graduated from Fountain Central High School in 1982 and later received his Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Purdue University in 1997.

Greg served in the U.S. Navy for 6 years as a submarine nuclear power plant operator on the USS Hammerhead from 1983-1989. Following his service in the Navy, he worked in a variety of roles in hospitality and fine arts.

Greg was a fun, confident, intelligent, and positive person making him very social. He enjoyed traveling, new experiences, and meeting and making friends. As a result, he was a very great and interesting conversationalist. He was passionate about good food and was also a great chef. Greg loved music and entertainment of all varieties, ranging from movies and sports, to Broadway shows and concerts. Material possessions were not as important to him as living life with the many people who enriched his life along the way.

Greg is survived by his father, Jerry (Tina) Gookins of rural Veedersburg, IN, mother, Suzanne Gookins (David Hawn) of Pine Island, FL, and brother, Beau (Danielle) Gookins of rural Veedersburg, IN. Greg is also survived by his niece, Piper Gookins; nephews, Dallas (Kylea) Otero and Denton Otero; and great-nephew Asher Otero. Greg was preceded in death by his grandparents, William and Nyle Gookins and Lionel and Virginia Montgomery and uncle Bill Gookins.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, May 30, 2026 in Newtown Cemetery with family officiating. Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate is assisting Greg's family.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are preferred to the Newtown Cemetery. Visit us online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or share a memory.