Gregory Charles “Greg” Nagel, 63, of San Antonio, passed away after a courageous year-long journey with illness, surrounded by love.
Greg was born on August 16, 1962, in Cuero, Texas, to Charles and Jean Nagel. He was raised alongside his siblings, Jeff Nagel and Ann Nagel Pratt, and remained deeply connected to his family roots throughout his life—especially the N7 multi-generational family ranch in Cuero, which held a special place in his heart. No matter where he was in the world, he always made it a point to return to the ranch for birthdays and holidays.
Greg earned his Bachelor of Science in Dairy Science and a Master of Agricultural Economics from Texas A&M University. He went on to serve for 30 years with the U.S. Treasury as a National Bank Examiner. In addition, he was the co-founder of Capital Envy Franchise Development Co., where he also served as CFO and helped build and support businesses for over 18 years.
Greg loved entertaining, cooking, and creating spaces where everyone felt welcome and cared for. Whether hosting one of his memorable gatherings, arranging flowers, or simply making sure everyone was having a good time, Greg made life feel fuller, warmer, and more joyful.
He was known for his spirit, his sense of humor (“holy guacamole”), and his belief that life should be lived boldly and without regret. He encouraged others to “go forth in the direction of your dreams,” to “do more of what makes you happy,” and to “try everything”—values he lived alongside Eric in their entrepreneurial adventures.
Greg shared 28 extraordinary years with his husband, Eric Barton, building a life defined by love, adventure, and true partnership. Together, they made their home in Dallas, Texas; Phoenix, Arizona; Washington, D.C.; Northern Virginia; Rehoboth Beach, Delaware; and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico—creating a life rich with travel, exploration, and connection. Through it all, they built a world without regrets—one filled with celebration and deep devotion.
He is survived by his husband, Eric Barton; his parents, Charles and Jean Nagel; his siblings and spouses, Jeff and Katy Nagel and Ann and Jim Pratt; several nieces and nephews, many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, loyal sidekick Brooklyn, and countless dear friends around the world whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edwin and Edna Krueger-Nagel, Rudolph and Jennie Fuchs, and his cousin, Scott Benfield.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the main cathedral, with a reception to follow at 5910 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX 75235.
In honor of Greg, donations may be made to Texas FFA, 4-H Foundations, or the American Brain Tumor Association.
Gobble Gobble! We can’t wait to see all you fine folks there. Let’s celebrate community, music, and the spirit of Cuero. Bring your friends, your family, and your best turkey dance moves!
