Wanda M. Priest

Wanda M. Priest, age 100, of Battle Creek, passed away Thursday morning, May 4, 2017. Wanda was born December 2, 1916 in Battle Creek (at the home her grandparent's) located near Piper Park (on the former Maple St., now Capital Avenue NE) to J. Lyle and Margaret Emily (Potter) Sage. Wanda attended Battle Creek Public Schools and was moved ahead in her class twice.

Wanda met the love of her life, Harold M. Priest and married him on December 10, 1932 in Angola, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; three of her daughters, Nancy Hope, Linda Sampson and Sally Cripps; granddaughter, Debi Rahn and great-grandson, Nicolas Ulrich. Surviving her is a daughter, Barbara J. Sovern of Stuart, FL; sons-in-law, Steve Sampson and Howard Cripps; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; several great great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews and their families.

Wanda attended and generously contributed to Yorkville Community Church and Richland Bible Church. She loved golfing and was a former secretary of the Women's League at Maple Hills Golf Course. In the winter months she bowled at Nottke's Bowl and M-66 Lanes. She played Bridge with the same foursome for many years, Ladies of the Lake. She enjoyed playing the organ, especially Hawaiian music "Don Ho". In her younger years she ice skated with her grandchildren at her home on Gull Lake. She loved her family and was generous enough to take the entire family on cruises together. Wanda also enjoyed cooking and baking.

A memorial service to celebrate Wanda's life will be held 3:00 p.m., Thursday, May 11, 2017 in the chapel at Oak Hill Cemetery, 255 South Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49014. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the American Cancer Society or the National Emphysema Foundation. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family and/or favorite memories of Wanda may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.