Ron Leon Priest (Joe) was a lifelong resident of Fresno.  He was born to Mike and Thelma Priest on December 9, 1937.  He died on March 17, 2024, at the age of 86.

Ron was an active member of the Calwa United Methodist Church.  Having grown up in the church, it was a not a surprise to anyone when he became a youth pastor.  Over the course of over 60 years, he mentored dozens of young people and formed lifelong relationships with many of them.  Although Ron did not have biological children, he parented many.  He was generous with his time and talents and his church family was his life.

He coached the church softball team "Potluck" for decades – they were affectionately named "Potluck" for a couple of reasons, one, Ron loved potlucks, whether it be at the church social hall or a friends home and two, each year a Potluck fundraiser was held at the church to support the team.  Over the years, this tradition evolved and grew!  The most remembered were the spaghetti dinners – Ron was always the quality control inspector and he made sure that every plate that came out of the kitchen window was just right!

Ron also led bible studies, prayer group, prepared and gave sermons on Sundays, organized church bazaars, yard sales and the like – most things he did and had passion for were surrounding his church and church family.

Through his work and outreach with the church, he came into contact with many kids.  Two of them, Donny and Eddie, became like his own children.  Through those relationships, Ron became Papa to Alice, Julia and Gabe and great Papa to Kellen, Oliver, Liam, Taylon. Sienna and Mason.  All the kids  were Ron's pride and joy.

Funeral services for Ron will be held on April 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM.  Services will be held at Grace United Methodist Church located on 3362 East Balch Avenue, Fresno, CA 93702.