David Priest

David T. "Tommy"  Priest, 73 of Wilmington, formerly of Atlanta, GA and Lisbon,  passed away on September 8, 2021. Mr. Priest was preceded in death by his parents, James B. Priest Sr. and Hazel Coleman Priest; and his brother, JB Priest.

He is survived by two sisters, Sandra Priest of Fayetteville; Kay Priest Sherin of Little River, SC; sister-in-law, Patsy Priest of Lisbon; nieces, Lisa P. Clark (Ken); Robyn Hill (Wayne) Tracey Hagy (Todd); nephews, Jamie Priest (Cassie) Kevin Priest (Melinda); Chris Floyd and several great nieces and nephews.

David was known for striking up a conversation with anyone and always enjoyed meeting new people.  His love of horses from a young age shaped his youth as well as the early adult years of his life. He was an equestrian that not only enjoyed showing horses but trained them for many horse owners. He worked early in his career with the Morton family in Linville, NC and also the Busch family of St. Louis, Missouri. Fond memories were showing horses for both families in the United States and Europe. Showing a special horse for the Busch family in Madison Square Garden in New York City was a highlight of his equestrian career. He transitioned to being an entrepreneur and enjoyed different opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia where he resided for 40 years. He owned his own tour company for several years leading up to the 1996 Olympics and beyond. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and served many including Tyler Perry and the Pulitzer family. He was a real estate agent for Berkshire Hathaway until he retired. He was a man of many talents and will be missed by all that knew him.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, September 12, 2021 in the Lisbon Cemetery at 4:00 pm with Rev. Mark Creech officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 206 Warrior Trail, Whiteville, NC 28472.