Obituaries

James E. Priest

Photo of James E. Priest
James E. Priest, 96, of Jefferson City, passed away, Sunday, May 19, 2013, at Villa Marie Skilled Nursing. He was born February 12, 1917, in Jefferson City, a son of the late Edgar and Alma (Hagar) Priest. He was united in marriage to Elsie Jacobs on September 5, 1940, and preceded him in death October of 2002. James began painting as an apprentice from 1935 to 1938. He worked as a journeyman painter from 1939, until his retirement in 1980. He was a United States Army Veteran and served in the Army Air Corps, 27th Service Group 97th Squad, from 1943, to 1946. He was a member of the Painters Local 1185 in Columbia and a lifetime member of the Painters Union since 1977. He was a member of Central United Church of Christ. He is survived by two sisters: Virginia Helton of Holts Summit and Margie Coots (husband Jim of Holts Summit; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by five sisters: Gladys Stoehr, June Scott, Ruby Stoll, Nellie Mae Schwaller and Betty Yancey and two brothers: Leroy Priest and Donald Priest. Friends will be received from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow with Rev. Coletta Eichenberger of Central United Church of Christ officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Hawthorn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to the Central United Church of Christ, Bell Choir Fund of Central United Church of Christ or Charity of Donor's Choice. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com

Published May 21, 2013