Joseph Norton Priest

Joseph Norton Priest, age 88, of Moore County, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at Peak Resources – Pinelake in Carthage with his loving family by his side.

Joe was born on June 24, 1937, in Pinehurst, North Carolina, to the late Archie Robert Priest and Mary Mag Fields Priest.

Joe dedicated more than 20 years of service to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, where he was known as a dependable and hardworking man. Throughout his life, Joe embodied the values of dedication, kindness, and generosity.

He was a man who loved the simple joys of life. Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing, tending to his garden, and listening to gospel bluegrass music. He especially cherished time spent outdoors and sharing these moments with family and friends. Above all, he loved his family deeply-especially his grandson, Kyle. Joe also had a special place in his heart for all of his pets

Joe was a wholesome, giving, and helpful man who was always willing to lend a hand to neighbors and friends. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a faithful friend to many. The Priest family shared many treasured memories together, including yearly family vacations that brought them even closer.

A longtime member of Priest Hill Presbyterian Church, Joe lived his life guided by his faith and commitment to his community.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother, Paul, and his other eleven siblings: Daniel, Charlie, Cary, John, Richard, Bill, Robert, Irvin, Mack, and his sisters, Alice and Maggie.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Emily Brown Priest; his daughter, Debra Priest McPherson and her husband, Jim, of Cameron, North Carolina; his grandson, Kyle Joseph McPherson; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Cameron Cemetery in Cameron, North Carolina, with Pastor Brad Marona officiating. The family will receive friends for a time of fellowship at the conclusion of the service in the Cameron Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall.

Online condolences may be made at pinesfunerals.com.

Fry & Prickett Funeral Home is serving the Priest family.