John O. Pryor, 84, loving husband, father, brother and friend, passed away peacefully at home with his wife and daughter by his side on Monday February 15, 2021.
John was born on September 2, 1936 in New Bedford MA, the eighth child to Joseph and Alice Pryor. He was a 1956 graduate of New Bedford Vocational High School where he received his certificate in welding. After graduation he joined the United States Air Force and upon his discharge he began his career in welding. In 1980, he married Joan Marie and they raised two daughters together, Angela and Michelle. He was a master welder for the majority of his career and spent 15 years at RVP in Kewanee, IL. After 18 years, he was the first employee to ever retire from Brownell Boat Stands in Marion, MA in 2005.
John was a dedicated member of Union Baptist Church where he held many roles including Head Trustee and beloved van driver for over 20 years. He was also a loyal member and brother of the William H. Carney Elks Lodge, a place that brought him much joy and several lifelong relationships. He wore many hats over the years but being given the title of grandfather brought him the most fulfillment. He wore that hat proudly and looked forward to every visit with them.
Those who knew John best would agree that he was a gentle soul with a kind spirit. He had a passion for the Lord and a faith like no other. His selfless nature and generosity are what made him well liked by so many. John was soft spoken but thoroughly enjoyed being around others and could talk about anything. He was an avid sports fan and loved his Patriots, Celtics and Red Sox teams. He was a humble man and highly respected in the community. He touched countless lives throughout his lifetime and will be truly missed by those who loved him.
John is survived by his wife Joan of 43 years, daughter Angela and her husband Angel Andrews, of Forney Texas, daughter Michelle Wright and her companion Rolando Perry of New Bedford, sister Alice and her husband Reginald Dossett, and brother Richard Pryor of New Bedford, four grandchildren, Aron, Ayla, Alyx and Arik, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Joseph and Alice Pryor, and siblings, Ruth Chastang, Florence Eubanks, Joseph Pryor Jr., Shirley Averill, Emma Pryor and Elizabeth Pryor.
His visitation will be held on Saturday February 27, 2021 from 3-5pm at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
Please be advised that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are strict guidelines that must be adhered to for the safety of everyone. You MUST wear a mask and practice social distancing. Guests will be permitted to pay their respects and depart to allow the next guests to enter. Capacity at the funeral home will be limited so there could be wait times outside the funeral home. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.