Mr. John Ray Priest

John Ray Priest, 74, of Dobson, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, August 4, 2013, at his home with his loving family. He was born in Lubbock, Texas, to Robert and Dora Priest on February 1, 1939. John was a passionate man who worked as a carpet installer. He did carpet laying for 32 years and began his career when carpet was still sewn together with a needle and thread. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching football, family activities, and camping. John was married to Ruth Ann Priest in the year of 1975 and had their ceremony in Reno, Nevada. They were united in marriage for nearly 38 years. He became an instant father to Kirby Campbell, Geri Gartner and Edward Woldt; and a grandfather to nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. John is survived by Goldie Bryant, Thelma Castill, Melvin Priest and Corky Priest. After the passing of his wife, Ruth Ann Priest in June of 2012, John relocated to Dobson, North Carolina, where he made his home with his eldest daughter, Kirby, and her husband, David Campbell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest sister, Julie Statzer. John will be missed.