Gary Priest

Gary R. Priest, 81, of Rockford, IL, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born May 28, 1944, in Council Bluffs, IA, Gary was the son of Juliette and Ivan. He was lovingly raised by his mother, Juliette, and his stepfather, Lewis Priest, whom he considered his true father in every way.

Gary married the love of his life, Nancy J. Brown, on September 2, 1967, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rockford. During their 58 years together, Gary and Nancy traveled the world, visiting destinations such as Alaska, Hawaii, and Nova Scotia. Gary always cherished the family vacations to Hilton Head Island, where the entire family would gather.

In addition to his love for travel, Gary had a passion for flying and all things related to airplanes. He worked as a claims adjuster for State Farm Insurance for 39 years, and after retiring, he found great joy working as a starter at Sandy Hollow Golf Course. To say that Gary loved golf is an understatement. He looked forward to playing with friends and family as often as possible.

Gary was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and Kiwanis, where he served as past president of the Golden K Chapter.

While Gary had many hobbies, none compared to his love for his grandchildren. They were his greatest joy, and he was often seen attending their sporting events and activities. Anyone who ever met Gary knew how personable, kind, compassionate, and generous he was. He was always willing to lend a hand and would have given the shirt off his back for anyone in need. With his playful sense of humor and a heart bigger than life, Gary brought joy to everyone around him. He often introduced himself as "Gary, The Good-Looking Guy" and will forever be remembered as "Gary, The Guy Who Always Showed Up," no matter the circumstance.

Although we will miss Gary deeply, we take comfort knowing that, in between golf games, he's up there looking after us, just as he did in life.

Survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Shelley (Todd) Harmsen, Greg (Molly) Priest, and Jonathan (Carrie) Priest; grandchildren, Skylar (fiancé Samantha), Brandon (fiancé Kate), Madison & Briley Harmsen, and Elodie, Lyla, & Harrison Priest; brothers, Dennis and Patrick Priest, and special sister-in-law, Peggy Priest. Gary is predeceased by his mother, father and step-father.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 200 N. 1st St., Rockford with Pastor Jay Quinn officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. To share a memory or condolence please visit www.olsonfh.com.