Fans of television anchor Donna Gregory were saddened earlier this year when the North Carolina journalist revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer.

They learned that the beloved media personality's suffering came to an end this week when it was reported that she had passed away. 

Anchor remembered for her "grace and determination"

According to People magazine, Wilmington's WWAY three announced that Gregory had died following her "courageous battle with cancer."

"It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the loss of our beloved veteran news anchor, Donna Gregory," a statement from the news outlet began.

"Donna died on Tuesday, surrounded by her loved ones, who stood steadfastly by her side as she faced a courageous battle against Stage 4 lung cancer," it continued.

"Diagnosed in early April, Donna confronted her illness with grace and determination, undergoing immunotherapy and chemotherapy while remaining a beacon of hope and inspiration," the statement added.

Family says Gregory's last days were "spent with us by her bedside"

It went on to recall how Gregory's "extraordinary journalism career spanned decades" and saw her travel "across the globe to cover some of the world’s most significant events."

The television station noted that Gregory's "influence extended far beyond the anchor desk" as she was "a mentor to young journalists" as well as "a cherished friend to many in our newsroom."

Meanwhile, Gregory's family put out a statement of their own which said that her last days were "spent with us by her bedside" and "filled with the same love and strength she shared her whole life."

For her part, Gregory said in April that the cancer diagnosis was one of "the knock-out punches you don’t see coming that can leave you struggling to catch your breath."

"I am mostly concerned about my children and their mental health during this transition time for our family. Thank you for your prayers for them, too, as they circle the wagons to help take care of their mom," she stressed.

Meteorologist shares fond memories of Gregory

Tributes to Gregory quickly appeared on social media, including from colleague Matthew Huddleston, who wrote, "Donna Gregory was one of the first people to speak to me when I started at WWAY."

Donna Gregory was one of the first people to speak to me when I started at WWAY. In the 4 years to follow, she motivated & encouraged me to become the best broadcast meteorologist I could be, even through my early struggles. I’ll miss the bright light she emitted daily. pic.twitter.com/0tXLZwCgdG

— Matthew Huddleston (@MatthewHWx) November 20, 2024

"In the 4 years to follow, she motivated [and] encouraged me to become the best broadcast meteorologist I could be, even through my early struggles. I’ll miss the bright light she emitted daily," he added.