Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Gregory Castle, Animal Advocate Extraordinaire
Remembering Gregory Castle
With heavy hearts, the animal welfare community mourns the loss of Gregory Castle, a true visionary and co-founder of Best Friends Animal Society, who passed away unexpectedly on May 17, 2025, at the age of 83. Gregory’s unwavering dedication to the well-being of animals shaped a movement that transformed how society views and treats homeless pets.
Born in 1942 in Cranbrook, England, Gregory’s early life experiences, particularly during World War II, instilled in him a profound sense of compassion and resilience. He attended Cambridge University, where he earned degrees in philosophy and psychology while also honing his skill in filmmaking. His time with the Cambridge Footlights sharpened his creativity and storytelling abilities, which later became instrumental in advocating for animal rights.
In 1984, Gregory, alongside 26 other passionate individuals, established Best Friends Animal Society in Utah. Under his leadership as CEO from 2009 to 2018, the organization flourished, becoming the nation’s foremost advocate for no-kill animal shelters. His vision led to the creation of the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, which is the largest no-kill shelter in America, offering sanctuary for thousands of animals each year.
Gregory was known not just for his administrative acumen but also for his deep commitment to hands-on work. He was instrumental in setting up essential infrastructure for the sanctuary, including water lines and electrical systems throughout the extensive 3,000-acre property, relying on DIY manuals and sheer determination. His practical skills were complemented by an innovative approach to problem-solving, which has become a hallmark of the organization’s initiatives.
In 2000, he launched the No More Homeless Pets in Utah campaign, a collaborative effort that brought together local veterinarians, shelters, and volunteers to provide low-cost spay/neuter services and promote adoption efforts, laying the groundwork for what would become the No-Kill Utah initiative. This coalition has since inspired similar efforts across the country, showcasing the power of community and collaboration in achieving animal welfare goals.
Gregory's contributions extended beyond animal welfare; he was a man of many interests and talents. A skilled musician, he played the bagpipes and was also a licensed pilot, showcasing his adventurous spirit. His commitment to running was remarkable as well; he completed 17 marathons, including three Boston Marathons, and became the oldest participant to finish the challenging Grand to Grand Ultra, traversing 170 miles of rugged terrain in Utah. His zest for life and determination were apparent in all his endeavors.
Gregory leaves behind his beloved wife, Julie, their daughter, Carragh Maloney, granddaughter Zoe Glover, and his siblings. He is survived by numerous furry friends, including his dogs Sunny and Marley and cats Ellie and Maggie, who were lucky enough to experience his love and care.
His passing is a significant loss to the animal welfare community, but his legacy lives on through the ongoing work at Best Friends Animal Society and the many lives he touched. As Francis Battista, Best Friends' board president and fellow co-founder, stated, "Losing Gregory is devastating, but his legacy of kindness and his commitment to animals will always inspire us to continue the work he cherished."
Gregory Castle’s life was a testament to the power of compassion and dedication to a cause larger than oneself. His memory will continue to inspire future generations of animal advocates who strive for a world where every animal has a loving home. In the wake of his passing, the Best Friends Animal Society reaffirms its commitment to uphold the ideals that Gregory championed, ensuring that his vision for a no-kill nation remains alive and achievable.
As we celebrate Gregory’s life, we invite everyone to honor his memory by continuing the fight for animal welfare and supporting organizations that work tirelessly to rescue and advocate for our furry companions. Together, we can carry forward his legacy and ensure that every dog and cat finds a place to call home.