John Priest

1922 - 2024

John Priest
It is with heavy hearts yet hopeful spirits that we announce the passing of John R. Priest, age 102 years, 1 month, and 26 days, on 17 December 2024. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and faithful servant of God, John peacefully left this earthly life, assured of the promise of heaven, to reunite with his Savior, his beloved wife, Mary, and those loved ones who have gone before him.
John was born on October 21, 1922, to George and Mercy Priest on a small farm near Rosebush, Michigan. A graduate of Shepherd High School in 1941, John's early years were marked by a love of baseball, football, and a humorous disdain for his high school English class. His life changed forever when he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Raab, in 1942, before bravely serving his country during World War II. John served as a Sergeant in the 246 Combat Engineer, Company A, Third Platoon, 1st Squad, and later as a Staff Sergeant in the 1277 Combat Engineer, Company C, First Platoon, Third Squad. As far as he knew, he outlived all the other brave soldiers he fought alongside in Europe-a testament to his resilience and strength.
After returning from the war, John built a remarkable life. He worked over 30 years as a carpenter for Dow Chemical and, alongside Mary, operated their family business, J&M Grocery. John also served his community as Greendale Township Supervisor and as a member of the Midland Co. Road Commission.
In 1959, John and Mary surrendered their lives to Christ at Oil City Assembly of God in Shepherd, MI. A man of unwavering faith, John served his church for decades as Sunday School Superintendent and board member. His faith guided his every decision and interaction, shaping the legacy of kindness, love, and humility he leaves behind.
John was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Priest; his son-in-law, Doug Williams; his sister, Mary Jane Baldwin; his granddaughter, Alisa Renae; and his brother- and sister-in-laws: Charles Baldwin, Richard Moore, Helen Yost (Herbert), and George Raab (Mary).
He is survived by his children: Dennis Priest Sr. (Connee), Kenneth Priest (Cathy), JoEllen Williams, and Rita Escamilla (Ernesto); his siblings: Shirley M. Priest (Shirley A.) and Ruthy Evelyn Moore; 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
John was a true Renaissance man. Even in his later years, he lived independently, baking bread and pies, taking care of "his girls" (his honeybees in the hives behind his house), and keeping friends, family, and strangers alike well supplied with honey. He remained active on Facebook, FaceTiming with loved ones, and offering life advice with his signature wisdom: "Keep your powder dry. Don't take any wooden nickels. Keep arrows in your quiver, and always salute the flag." A lifelong Detroit Tigers fan, patriot, and man of integrity, John inspired others with his unwavering faith, wisdom, and love.
John leaves a legacy of service, faith, and unconditional love that will continue to impact generations. He was the "Senior Priest," a legend in his time, and though we mourn his earthly absence, we rejoice in his heavenly homecoming.
A celebration of John's life will be held at the Oil City Assembly of God on Friday, December 20 at 1 P.M. with visitation from noon until time of service with Terry Honeycutt officiating. There will be a visitation held on Thursday, December 19 at Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd from 5 to 8 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Oil City Assembly of God at 5410 W Isabella Rd, Shepherd, MI 48883.
"Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Master." – Matthew 25:23