Billy Joe Priest

Billy Joe "Bill" Priest, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on August 15, 2024, at the age of 93. Bill was born on April 20, 1931, to Arthur and Lena (Hewitt) Priest in Ward, Arkansas.

Bill was a skilled and dedicated worker, spending over 30 years at Munsey Products. During his tenure, he contributed to the design of many small kitchen appliances, including slow cookers, waffle makers, and toaster ovens. He also designed commercial appliances, such as a waffle cone maker. Known for his ability to create and repair almost anything, "If Bill can’t fix it, we’re screwed." This talent was a legacy he proudly passed on to his son, Adam.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Lena Priest; his brother, Howard; his sister, Betty Jean; his son, Billy Daniel; his daughter, Connie; and his brother-in-law, George Stevenson.

He is survived by his beloved wife Sharon of 49 years; his son, Adam, and daughter-in-law, Ashley, along with their children, Cooper and Riley, of Benton, Arkansas; his daughter, Sharon Brown, and her husband, Marlin, along with Sharon’s children, Mylo Granadoz, Shamun Granadoz, and Emmett Dalton, of Cape Fair, Missouri. Bill is also survived by his nieces, Sherry Donnell (Mike) and Lisa Rabatin (Mike).

Bill’s legacy will live on through his family and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his remarkable skills, his gentle spirit, and the love he had for his family.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Smith Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., Little Rock, AR 72205. 

Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas TX 85284 or www.heart.org. (All donations are credited to the local office).