Gregory King Prior

1953 - 2025

Gregory King Prior

March 3, 1953 - November 1, 2025

Shell Knob, Missouri - Greg King Prior, born on March 3, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on November 1, 2025, in Shell Knob, Missouri. He was 72 years old.

The most important thing in Greg's life was his wife, Paula. Their bond was one of deep love and mutual devotion that spanned 45 wonderful years. Together, they built a life filled with joy, adventure, and shared passions-especially their love for the outdoors. Whether fishing, boating, or water skiing at Table Rock Lake, Greg and Paula found happiness in nature and each other's company.

Greg's connection to Table Rock Lake ran deep. His family took yearly trips there throughout his life, creating cherished memories on the water. In 1978, he purchased his first lake house-a testament to his enduring love for the lake and all it represented. In 1997 Greg and Paula fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing their retirement home there. They were fortunate to enjoy many years together in that special place both before and after retirement.

Greg dedicated his professional life to serving others through emergency medical services. He began as a volunteer with the Shawnee Fire Department. He later joined the Leawood Fire Department and due to his commitment and leadership became a Captain before joining Johnson County MedAct. Over the course of 26 years with MedAct-and 34 years total in EMS Greg served with distinction and compassion, ultimately retiring as a paramedic Battalion Chief in 2008.

His kindness and generosity extended beyond his professional life. Greg had a gift for friendship; he loved meeting people and being surrounded by those he cared about. His warmth earned him many lifelong friends-many of whom shared his enthusiasm for cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs.

Greg is survived by his beloved wife Paula; his sister Jaynie Prior; brother Jeff Prior; and sister-in-law Vickie Warren. He was preceded in death by his father Robert Prior; mother Bobbie Prior; older brother Mike Prior; and younger brother Patrick Prior.

Greg's legacy is one of service, love, friendship, and joyful living. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness in others. A very casual Celebration of Life will be held on December 18, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 07:00 PM at Overland Park Fire Department Training Center 12401 Hemlock St. Come anytime between 3:00-7:00. Beginning at 4:00 anyone who wants to share a memory can do so at that time. We will also be having a tribute to Greg this summer on the water at Table Rock Lake.

A Gregory King Prior Memorial EMS Scholarship Fund has been established through Johnson County Community College. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Greg's name at jccc.edu/GKP