Richard V. Priester

Longtime Walla Walla resident, retired Chief Master Sergeant, Richard V. Priester, USAF, passed away on January 5th, 2014, one day after his 88th birthday.

Richard was born in 1926 in Natchez, Mississippi and raised in Deveraux Hall orphanage for boys during the Great Depression. He fought for the United States in World War II, from the years 1942-1945, and continued a 30 year career in the US Air Force. He married his wife Beverly Priester (nee Chistensen) in December of 1950 at Fort Hood, Texas, while stationed at nearby Killeen Base. They had three children, and Richard's military service took them around the world from Izmir, Turkey, to Tacoma, Washington, and finally to Walla Walla in 1966.

Richard retired from the Air Force in 1974 and soon after began a career as a school bus driver for the Walla Walla School District, eventually becoming Transportation Supervisor. He was known by students and colleagues alike as "Sarge." After retiring in the early 90's, he became an avid traveler, frequently crossing the country with his wife and their many grandchildren. Richard also enjoyed exercise and could be found almost daily at the YMCA. He read his bible every day and often attended church at the V.A. Chapel. He was an outgoing man who enjoyed spotting his friends around town. A frequent joke-teller, his family remembers his wonderful sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Priester at the home; his children, Kristine Marlow, Jeffrey Priester, and Julianne Michaels; his grandchildren, Kirsten Owens, William Royce, Elizabeth Limtiaco, Joshua Priester, Christopher Cliff, and Michael Blackwood; his great-grandchildren, Alison Owens, Madison Owens, Katie Owens, Cailin Cliff, Royce Owens, and Jackson Owens; and his personal caregiver, Jon Rose.

The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 13, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the Chapel of the Herring Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362 with Chaplain Ben Vegors officiating. There will be a private family interment. Memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer's Foundation of America through the funeral home.