“They may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.”

It’s a quote often repeated in some fashion, and attributed to a number of authors including Carl W. Buehner and poet Maya Angelou, but truer words have never been spoken.

There are people who have a way of making an impact on the lives of others and among them was former Flagler County resident Rev. Wes Priest, who passed away after a brief battle with cancer on March 7, 2021.

Active in church, the community and local politics, he was dearly beloved by many and respected by others. Longtime friend Pam Richardson said his loss was deeply felt.

“Wes Priest was the finest man I have ever had the honor to know. His polite demeanor and gentle nature was shared with so many people who were lucky enough to know him.  I was blessed to have the opportunity to spend over a decade of fun and laughter with Wes and his beautiful wife of over 50 years Kathy.  He welcomed everyone warmly with no doubt about his character as it presented itself right before your eyes,” recalled Richardson.

“He loved sharing the stories about his amazing background as a legendary singer for the Gaither Gospel choir, a prison guard chaplain, and his everlasting support of Michigan State University.  He was so kind and loved honesty and fairness above all. As the Secretary for the Flagler County Republican Club, he was totally focused, capturing the essence of each conversation along with such positive energy and his signature smile and chuckle.  He was always the first one to step up do more than his share. He was serving in that position for many years, then was asked to fill the shoes of President after the retirement of Gail Wadsworth which he humbly stepped into a few years ago.” 

“When Wes cared about someone it felt like you were never going to be alone. I spoke with my great friend Wes just weeks before his passing and he shared his peace and comfort about his destiny. Little did I know it would be my last conversation with a sacred heart filled with love. Rest peacefully my friend I truly will miss you forever.”

While spending their retired years in Palm Coast, Wes made many friends not only in their community of Grand Haven, but on the political scene. As the couple entered their golden years, they decided to move back to Michigan to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Before leaving, Wes and his wife were surprised with going away party, where Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly added one more title to Wes’s name.

“I first met Wes when I joined the local Republican Club many years ago,” said Staly. “He was a dedicated man of God and a fierce defender of conservative policy and keeping Christ in Christmas. Wes always supported me as Sheriff and when he moved back to Michigan I had the pleasure of appointing him an Honorary Deputy.  Debbie and I send our prayers and condolences to his wife and family on their loss.”

From holding up signs and working the polls, to helping organize community outreach opportunities like First Friday and multi-day events at Creekside or July 4th activities, along with the club’s monthly meetings, his energy seemed boundless.

“Wes was a tireless defender of all things good with uncompromising principles for all things right,” said close friend and former Flagler County Commissioner Nate McLaughlin.

Through his countless hours of dedication to the Republican Party and candidates who represented his unflinching conservative values, Wes also earned the respect of elected officials from the local, state and national level.

“We are saddened by the loss of Wes Priest, who served his community and was committed to the civic life of Flagler County and our state,” said Florida Representative Paul Renner. “Adriana and I are praying for his family and those he leaves behind.”

Serving as a team member for former Flagler County Clerk of Court Gail Wadsworth for two decades, his passing was a poignant reminder of his many contributions to Flagler County and his ability to make everyone he met feel special.   

“Wes was a member of the Republican Executive Committee for at least twenty years and for many of those it’s Secretary. He also did double duty and was the Secretary of the Republican Club for many years as well as Vice President and President from 2014 through 2016. Plus he was once my campaign manager,” shared Wadsworth.

“But even more important than all, he was and is my friend. That friendship, along with the laughter – just pure fun is what is and what I will hold dear until we meet again.”

Rev. Wes Priest will be laid to rest on Friday, March 19, 2021. His service will be broadcast live by Mount Hope Church and may be viewed here on Friday starting at noon.

Obituary: https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/20223281/Wesley-J-Priest