Kerry Priest

Kerry Lee Priest, Retired U.S. National Guard Veteran of Clarkton, passed away at the age of 80. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Lillie Register Priest, his two wives Sue Priest and Elsie Priest and one sister, Faye Lanier. Left to cherish his memory are sons, Stephen Lee Priest (Kim) of Bladenboro, Barry Priest (Allison) of Clarkton, daughters Renita Kaczkowsky (Ron) of Fayetteville, Melanie Hester (David) of Bladenboro, one brother Donnie Priest of Rocky Point, seven grandchildren Amanda Sullivan (Kelly), Stephanie Bryan (Michael), Allison Strickland (Ricky), Kirsten Priest, Taylor Priest, Jacob Priest and Karli Priest, six great grandchildren Madison, Gunner, Haley, Ashton, Katie, and Joshua, two stepchildren Heath Hair (Chris) and Kory Hair (Jennifer) and four step grandchildren Jaxon, Haley, Jayce, and Emma.

Kerry was born in Robeson County however after living in several areas he and his wife settled in the Clarkton community. He was married to his first wife Sue for 43 years until her untimely death in 2006.  They raised four children together. He later found love again and married Elsie Hair until her death in 2021. He adored his wives, his family, and his country.

Kerry worked in the engineering department with Dupont and later DAK America until his retirement. He served with the United States Army National Guard for over 20 years. Kerry loved life and had a strong will to live. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy of love, determination and strong will continue to strengthen the family he leaves behind.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 pm on Thursday, January 19th at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 20th at the Elizabethtown Baptist Church with Dr. Rudy Ramphal officiating. Burial will follow the services in the Clarkton Cemetery.