Guy Pharr Priester

Guy Pharr Priester was an incredibly strong and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, with a fearless approach to life and a diligent work ethic. His career included 24 years of military service, initially during World War II, then as an instructor for nuclear teams in the United States Air Force. Afterwards, he embarked on what he felt was his true vocation with 49 years of faithful service, sustained until age 92, as a pastor in Florida and Georgia.

It is with deep sorrow for ourselves but profound joy in his ascension that we announce his passing at age 97 on December 26th, 2025.

Born on February 15th, 1928, in Selma, Alabama, Guy was known for his resilience. He survived the Great Depression as a child and defeated cancer and recurrences 5 times as an adult. He become known as a devoted witness for Christ, a tireless volunteer, an athletic prodigy, a golf enthusiast, a vocal powerhouse, and an unwavering source of comfort to the sick.

Guy was predeceased by his beloved wife of 72 years, Gladys "Bess" Priester and is survived by his two children, Guy Priester, Ill (Lynn) and Cynthia Beard (Kenneth), his 3 grandchildren, Kenneth Beard, Jr (Laurel), Jonathan Beard (Giselle), and Guy Priester, IV (Melissa), his 3 great-grandchildren, Isabella Beard, Gal Priester, and Luke Beard, and many other beloved family and friends.

The family will receive friends from 12 noon until 2 pm on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 at The Church on Main, 2400 Main Street E. Snellville, GA 30078. A Funeral Service at the church will follow at 2 pm, arrangements by Byrd and Flanigan Crematory & Funeral Service, Lawrenceville, GA, 770-962-2200.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, January 5th at 1 pm at Oak Hill Cemetery, Oglesby Avenue, Quitman, GA 31643, arrangements by Maxwell-Purvis Funeral Home, Quitman, GA, 229-263-8842.