Gary R. Priest

Westville – Gary R. Priest, 76, of Westville, IL, passed away on Jan.15th, 2025 at his home, after a valiant battle with kidney cancer, with his wife by his side. He was born on January 3rd, 1949 in Danville, IL, the son of the late Donal and Alberta "Fern" (Holden) Priest. 

Gary rekindled an old friendship with Carla Sirratt-DeAngelis thirteen years ago. The love that followed was deep and unwavering. They married August 14th, 2021. She survives.

Gary is also survived by his children, Amy ( Thomas) Franklin, Danville, Jeremy (Mindy Calvin) Priest, (Westville) and Amanda Priest; two step-daughters, Donielle and Courtney DeAngelis, all of Danville. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Jylian, Jacob, Alejandro, Abigayle (Danny), Jackson, Madison and Zane; two great grandchildren, Beau and Divine; two siblings Donna (Don) Reynolds and Scott Priest; brother-in-law Jeff Sirratt, sister-in-law Cheryl Maguire; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and maternal grandmother Tressie Holden. 

Gary was a gentle, kind, funny, hardworking, and selfless man. He was loved by many and leaves many cherished friends behind.

Gary spent most of his work life as a truck driver.

He first retired from McLane, then returned to work and retired from Flex n' Gate. He was a big fan of anything Disney and visited Disney World over 30 times. He enjoyed traveling the last ten years taking multiple trips to Mexico, the Caribbean, Las Vegas, Arizona and Amelia Island Florida. Gary liked fishing, especially with his children and grandchildren. He was a talented woodworker and many have pieces he made for them to cherish. He was a big sports fan with Illini basketball being his favorite sport to watch.

Gary was a productive gardener always eager to share the bounty with others. Most of all Gary loved his wife, his children, and the time spent with his grandchildren. 

A service to celebrate the life of Gary R. Priest will be held at 4 PM on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834. Cremation will follow. Pastor James Blue will officiate. Visitation will be held from 2-4 PM prior to the service on Thursday, also at Sunset in Danville.

Please join Gary’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.