Robert Earnest “Bob” Pryor, 86, of Festus died Dec. 11, 2023, at de Greef Hospice House in St. Louis. Mr. Pryor was a longtime employee of the Festus R-6 School District. He began as a math teacher and bus driver and retired as assistant superintendent. He served the school district and community for more than 40 years. He was part of numerous local organizations as well as a member of several state and national organizations. He enjoyed spending time with family, playing golf with his friends and taking in many of his grandchildren’s sporting events and other activities over the years. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church for more than 45 years. Born June 14, 1937, in Clarksville, Ark., he was the middle of three sons to the late Polly (Nesbitt) and Charles Pryor.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years: Virginia (Cater) Pryor.
He is survived by a daughter: Rhonda (Terry) Gipson of Festus; a son: Robert (Teri) Pryor of Festus; three grandchildren: Logan (Samantha) Pryor, Paige (Blake) Pollard and Brennan (Caitlin) Pryor; two great-grandchildren: Grayson Pryor and Jonah Pryor; and a brother: Charles (Dixie) Pryor of Indiana.
He also was preceded in death by a brother: John “Nick” (Sandra “Kay” survives of Indiana) Pryor.
Visitation is scheduled from 4 p.m. until a celebration of life service at 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus, officiated by Dr. Matt Kearns. Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, in Presbyterian/Methodist Cemetery in Festus. Memorials may be made to the de Greef Hospice House. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.