Thomas L. Priester, 74, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026 at Schoellkopf Health Care Facility. Born in Niagara Falls, he was the son of the late James O. and Elizabeth (Hollingshead) Priester; and the beloved husband of Marie (Presutti) Priester, whom he married on June 28, 1975 at Sacred Heart Church.

Tom was a graduate of LaSalle Senior High School and proudly served in the United States Army. He also served in the United States National Guard for 10 years.  Following his honorable discharge in 1973, he worked with Olin Chemical Company and TAM Ceramics. For many years, he also spent time working alongside his family at his father's business, JP Fence Company. Tom later retired from his position as a Security Officer at Seneca Niagara Casino after over 10 years of dedicated service.

Tom had a lifelong love for baseball, playing from childhood well into his adult years. He was also an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Buffalo Bills. Tom enjoyed fishing, cherished annual camping trips with the "Once a Year Gang," and looked forward to gathering with his "Neighborhood Breakfast Club," a close-knit circle of friends and family. Known for his big personality and unmatched sense of humor with no filter, Tom had a way of making everyone around him laugh. He was genuine and generous, the kind of man who would do anything for anyone. Above all, Tom's deepest love was reserved for his family. The time spent with them meant everything to him.

In addition to his wife, Marie, of 50 years, Tom is survived by his two children, Thomas C. Priester, Jennifer (Joseph M.) Kramer; his adored grandchildren, Olivia, Jacob and Joseph L. Kramer; his sisters, Debra A. Mauro, Susan C. Priester and Amy (John) Linkowski, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by four siblings, Michael (Kathy) Priester, Richard A. Priester, James Priester and Marion (late James) Woods.

Tom's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the first‑floor staff of Schoellkopf Health Care Facility for the care and compassion they provided.

In accordance to Tom's wishes, private funeral services with military honors and entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Lewiston, NY will be held for the family. Memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital at stjude.org. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.