IN MEMORIAM

EXPANDED EULOGIES

“In Memoriam” listings are expanded paid obituaries, phrased largely as the family requests, and may include enhanced information or photographs that might not fit within free death notices.

Judith Priest

A memorial service for Judith Joan Bish Priest, 90, who passed away April 18, 2026, will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 20, at Eastmoor United Methodist Church. Visitation will be noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 17, at the church,

Born on Christmas Eve in 1935 to Esther Schuessler Bish and Howard Bish, she later was joined by her beloved younger sister, Diane.

From an early age, Judy was nurtured in classical music and faith, learning the violin — an instrument that remained central to her life and ministry.

Judy attended Wichita East High School and Asbury College (now Asbury University) in Kentucky, where she earned a degree in Christian education.

There she met Robert “Bob” Priest, whom she married on June 9, 1961.

At age 21, Judy followed a call to overseas mission work, studying French in Paris before serving in Constantine, Algeria, during the Algerian war for independence.

Her work with girls in residential care during that turbulent time shaped a lifelong love for the marginalized and a faith marked by courage, compassion, and openness to people of all cultures and faiths.

After returning to the United States, Judy and Bob raised three children — Miriam, Stephen, and Rachel — while serving churches in Ohio and Kansas.

Judy ministered alongside Bob through music, teaching, hospitality, and leadership.

Later, she became a licensed preacher in the United Methodist Church, serving small Kansas congregations, where many came to faith through her joyful and faithful witness.

A gifted musician, Judy led worship, directed choirs, taught Sunday school, and remained devoted to her violin throughout her life.

She also loved gardening, fishing, travel, and welcoming others into her home — especially international students and those far from home.

Judy is survived by her husband of nearly 65 years, Bob; her children, Miriam “Mimi” Newman (and husband Phillip), Stephen Priest (and wife Cinthia), and Rachel Priest; grandchildren Havilah Moss (and husband Taylor), Sophia Newman, Joel Priest (and wife Diana), and Cavanaugh Newman (and wife Allison); great-grandchildren Macklin and Murphy; and sister Diane Bish.

Her life was marked by faith lived boldly, love offered freely, and music shared generously — for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Memorials may be made to Eastmoor United Methodist Church, GraceMed Health Clinic, and The Joy of Music.