Gerald E. "Jerry" Priest

Gerald Eugene Priest, age 85 of Ainsworth, Nebraska, lost his battle to cancer and passed away peacefully at home near Ainsworth on April 29th, 2020.

Jerry was born on February 26, 1935 in Ainsworth to Odis “Jack” and Vera (Killion) Priest, one of five children born to this union. He attended Willow Lake District #28 Rural School through the 8th grade. He then went to work in the hay fields in central South Dakota and on ranches throughout the Sandhills. On Dec 31, 1955, he married Elizabeth “Betty” Breitkreutz in Pierre, South Dakota. After they were married, they lived in several states where Jerry built power lines and Betty continued to do hair. Five children were born to this union; Sharon, Jeri Lea, Larry, David and Mark. Jerry and Betty bought their farm southwest of Ainsworth in 1971. They operated the dairy, raised corn, hogs, beef cattle, horses and kids. Their huge vegetable garden kept them busy as well.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents; wife Betty Priest; son Larry Eugene Priest; and a sister Leona Smith. He is survived by his daughters, Sharon (Harlan) Simonson of Ainsworth and Jeri Lea (Gordy) Huddle of Thedford, Nebraska; his sons, David (Julie) Priest of Long Pine, Nebraska and Mark (Sandy) Priest of Merna, Nebraska; his grandchildren Jesse (Megan) Huddle, Darin (Layne) Priest, Daniel (Laura) Priest, Ryan and Chad Simonson, Adyson and Caenyn Priest; and his great-grandchildren Alyvia and Wrenley Priest, MaKenna and Draiden Priest; one sister Ruth Allen of Johnstown; brothers Ted (Marilyn) Priest of Roosevelt, Utah, and Dallas (Alberta) Priest of Albuquerque, New Mexico; along with nieces, nephews and other family members.

A Private Family Graveside Service was held on Friday, May 1, 2020 in the Ainsworth Cemetery with Pastor Wayne Owens officiating at the service. The song, “God Must Be A Cowboy” by Dan Seals was played. Casket bearers were: Darin Priest, Daniel Priest, Adyson Priest, Ryan Simonson, Chad Simonson, Caenyn Priest and Jesse Huddle. Honorary Bearers were: Alyvia Priest, MaKenna Priest, Wrenley Priest and Draiden Priest. Memorials have been suggested to Asera Care Hospice Care or to the family in Jerry’s name for a future designation. Hoch Funeral Home of Ainsworth was in charge of the arrangements.