Charles Eddy Priest, Sr.

Lieutenant Colonel Charles Eddy Priest Sr., 77, of Tar Heel, NC, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his beloved family on June 4, 2025. Born on October 2, 1947 in Columbus County, Charles was one of three children of Daniel Leon Russell Priest Sr. and Bessie Brown Priest of Elizabethtown. He was the grandson of Sheriff Lee G. and Clara Priest of Elizabethtown and Carson and Stacia Brown of Clarkton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Traci Singletary Priest of Tar Heel; son, Charles Eddy Priest Jr. (Melissa) of Little River, SC; daughter, Paige Priest Monroe (Phillip) of Tar Heel; daughter, Brittany Priest Lindsay (Tommy) of Bladenboro; and son, Nathan Priest (Marie) of Tar Heel. Charles was a proud grandfather to Camille Priest and Gabriel Priest of Little River, SC; Conner Monroe of Tar Heel; Callie Lindsay of Bladenboro; and Beckham, Abram, and Theo Priest of Tar Heel.

He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Williams of Florence, SC; sister-in-law, Doll Priest of Elizabethtown; and many nieces and nephews: Lee Priest of New York, Robbie Priest (Carla) of Elizabethtown, Richie Priest of Elizabethtown, Elizabeth Priest of Elizabethtown, and Trey Williams (Lisa) of Florida. He was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Leon Russell Priest Jr. of Elizabethtown.

Charles graduated from Elizabethtown High School and attended Pembroke State, where he ran track and field and earned his degree in physical education. He returned to achieve his master’s degree years later at the University of North Carolina Pembroke. He began his teaching career in 1974 and retired in 2011 after 36 years as an educator in Bladen County Schools. As a teacher and coach, he led by example encouraging students to give 100%, believe in themselves, and never give up. His legacy is not just in lessons or victories, but in the character and confidence he instilled in those he taught.

Charles served his country with honor, completing two tours in Vietnam and dedicating 32 years to military service, including time with the National Guard. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and received numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and the Army Good Conduct Medal. His commitment to service was evident in every aspect of his life.

A devoted member of Tar Heel Baptist Church, Charles served as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, and committee volunteer. He was known for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and deep dedication to his faith, family, and community.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Tar Heel Baptist Church, with a graveside service and military honors to follow in the church cemetery.

We, the family of Charles Priest, extend our heartfelt gratitude for the love, care, and support shown during this time. A special thank you to Lower Cape Fear Hospice and Tina Webb for their exceptional compassion. Your kindness has brought us great comfort, and we are forever grateful.