James H. Priest Jr.

James H. Priest Jr., 76, of Evansville , died peacefully Wednesday, October 20, 2004, at home with his wife and children at his bedside.

Jim retired from Bristol-Myers in 1987, after 27 years of service in the Purchasing Department. He was a former member of Central Methodist Church and currently belonged to Salem (Heusler) United Church of Christ.

Through the years, he was active in many organizations. A few that were dear to his heart: Rainbow Girls Advisory Board, his years as Little League Coach, a 54-year member of Lessing Lodge 464, Scottish Rite, Past President of Purchasing Management Association with the designation of Certified Purchasing Manager from the National Association, member of the Azalea Society and other garden clubs, and member of the board at Woodland Lake.

Jim was a graduate of Bosse High School and the University of Evansville .

He is survived by his wife, Dawn Priest, whom he married on May 6, 1950; son, James Priest III and wife, Gayle; son, Terry Priest; daughter, Christy Priest; son, Gregg Priest and wife, Rebecca; and grandchildren, Nikolas, Eric, Samuel, Alex, Adam, Ben, Joey and Amy. Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Imogene Lane ; a brother-in-law, Maurice Mendel; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Bettye Fritz.

Services will be held 11 a.m. on Monday, October 25, 2004, at Alexander West Chapel, officiated by Reverend Jim Elliot, with burial in Park Lawn Cemetery.

Friends may call today, Sunday, October 24, 2004 , from 3 to 8 p.m. , with a Masonic service at 7 p.m. conducted by Lessing Lodge 464, at Alexander West Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Deaconess /Ohio Valley Hospice or Salem (Heusler) United Church of Christ.

Condolences may be made online at www.mem.com

Arrangements by Alexander West Chapel, 2100 West Illinois Street , Evansville , IN 47712 , (812) 423-4477.