Richard M. Priester, 79, of West Freedom, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2024, at Clarview Nursing Home, Sligo Pa.
He was born on May 2, 1944, and was the son of the late Dick & Dorothy (Carberry) Priester of West Freedom.
On September 6, 1963, he married the love of his life, Helen L. Bowser, at the Rimersburg Presbyterian Church.
They remained married for 49 years until her passing on March 7, 2012.
He was a 1962 graduate of Oil City High School.
He furthered his education by receiving a bachelor’s degree in secondary education in 1966 from Clarion State College.
In 1975, he continued his education earning a master’s degree in Education Administration from Westminster College.
He spent 35 years as an educator at North Clarion School District holding several positions over the years.
He held positions as a Secondary Teacher, Elementary Teacher, and Elementary Principal and was eventually appointed as the School Superintendent.
He retired from the school in 1999.
After his retirement, he was able to spend time with the family which he cared for so much.
Richard was a member of the Park Hill First Church of God for many years which was only a short walk across the road.
He enjoyed his time of fellowship with the members and being involved with many different ministries at the church.
Surviving are his three sons: Todd (Donna) Priester of Felton, Pa, Christopher (Debbi) Priester Sr of Clearfield, Pa, Brent (Tammy) Priester of Talbott, TN; 10 grandchildren: Craig (Kayla) Priester, Erin (Zack) Ness, Megan (Dan) Starr, Christopher Priester Jr (Liza Miller), Jeremy (Danielle) Priester, Peyton Priester (Amanda Cuff), Brittani Priester, and Courtney Priester, Alyssa (Nick) Lloyd, Lauren (Nick) Litz; 9 great-grandchildren: Aubrey and Olivia Starr, Lincoln Ness, Reid Miller, Addison, Jocelyn, and Deacon Priester, Julian Lloyd, Grayson Litz.
Also surviving is a sister, Linda (Mike) Johnson, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Park Hill First Church of God.
Online condolences can be made by visiting www.buzardfuneralhomes.com
