JERRY W. PRIEST

JERRY W. PRIEST Jerry W. Priest, 85, of Grover Hill, Ohio, passed to his forever home on January 12, 2025, at CHP Hospice Care of Defiance, with his children by his side. Born on January 4, 1940, in Paulding County to the late Delbert and Beulah Priest, Jerry was a proud graduate of Grover Hill High School, class of 1959. Throughout his life, Jerry was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his family. He retired from Zellers Corp in Defiance after more than 30 years of service, where he drove Towmotor until the factory closed. Jerry also worked other various jobs such as farming alongside his uncle, at the Grizzly Plant, and as a security guard at Defiance College and Pinkertons. He often juggled multiple jobs at once. His work ethic was something he passed down proudly to his children. Jerry's passion for sports was evident in his youth. He was a catcher for his baseball team and could often be found hitting the ball all the way to the road at Grover Hill Park. Something he would proudy tell his great-grandkids every time they played at the same park. He later enjoyed coaching many young players in Pony League. Jerry was also an avid bowler and hunter. In addition to his work and hobbies, Jerry served his community as the Village Police Officer and Mayor of Grover Hill. He always strived to make the village a great place to raise a family. He often fondly reminisced about the days when visitors would come into his home at all hours of the night calling for, "Jerry the Police Officer" or "Jerry the Mayor." In his later years, Jerry enjoyed simple pleasures like sitting on his porch with a cup of coffee watching the world go by, and enjoying occasional waves or chats with friends and neighbors. He was known for his kindness and would always walk people to the door, calling them "SIS" if he couldn't remember their name. He cherished time with family; playing Pinnacle with his son and brothers, playing bingo, eating out, and caring for his yard. Above all, Jerry's greatest joy came from his family. He loved them deeply and was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life was a testament to love, kindness, and the importance of family. In his final days, Jerry was surrounded by those who made him feel loved and seen. Jerry leaves behind his children, Michael (Kathy) Priest and Brenda (Jeff) Clark; his grandchildren, Jay (Katy) Priest, Sara (Garrett) Stoller, Matt (Skye) Larimore, Amanda Larimore, Ashley (Nick) Fidler, and Cody (Mallory) Clark; Great Grandchildren; Mikey, Jimmy, Finley, Lane, Venetia, Conner, Braxton, Ava, Amelia, and Madison; brothers, Robert (and the late Marcia) Priest and Brooks (Rhonda) Priest; and many nieces and nephews. Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle you will be dearly missed. Your legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will live on forever in our hearts. Funeral service was held at 12:00 P.M. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Den Herder Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Middle Creek Cemetery, Washington Township, OH. Visitation was from 10:00 A.M. until time of services on Friday. Memorial contributions may be made in Jerry's memory to Vancrest of Payne Activity Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.