Curtis Prior

Kingsport, TN- Curtis Prior, known as Curtis to his friends and family, passed away suddenly on April 8, 2025, in Kingsport, TN, at the age of 78. Born on August 12, 1946, in Wise County, VA, Curtis lived a life marked by bravery, adventure, and selflessness. Curtis was a proud graduate of Bland High School. His deep sense of duty led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, where he served his country with honor. His valor in the Vietnam Conflict earned him a Purple Heart for distinguished bravery, a testament to his courage and dedication to his nation. After his military service, Curtis continued his career at the Naval Shipyards in Norfolk, demonstrating the same commitment and work ethic that he had shown in the Marines. Eventually, he returned to his roots in Wise County, where he worked in the coal mines for Paramount and Westmoreland. Curtis was a man of faith who enjoyed reading the Bible, finding comfort and wisdom in its passages. He was a pillar of strength to his family and friends, and his presence brought a sense of security to those around him. Preceding him in death were his parents, Louis Prior and Mayetta Beard Pinkston, his siblings Harry Gaines, Jerome Horton, Stephanie Price, Ann Price, Teresa Beard Cole, and the mother of his children, Wilma Jean Williams Prior. Curtis was also greeted in eternity by his beloved granddaughter Brittany Porambo, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms. Curtis leaves behind a legacy of love and perseverance. Mourning his loss yet celebrating his life are his children, Alicia Fields, Margie Prior, and Curtis L. Prior I, and his fiancée, Sandra Duff & Brandi N.E. Prior & Shawn Burgess, His memory will also be treasured by his grandchildren, Crystal Potter (Josh), Christopher Porambo, Ashlei Porambo, Akeem Prior (Marshe Bonaparte), Joycie Hagan, Jasiah Duff, Jeremiah Duff, and Ava Prior. His great-grandchildren, Elaina, King, Raven, Alexandra, Laila, Charlee, Maliyah, Azzlyn, & Londyn, also left to honor Curtis's memory are his siblings, Deloris Hawkins (Nathaniel), Sandra Gadson (Richard), Vera Ruff (Dwight), Ronnie Gaines, and Johnny Brown. His passing is a profound loss to his extended family, including as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 19th at Holding Funeral Home from 11am-12pm. The Funeral service will be conducted immediately following in the funeral home's chapel with Pastor Sandra Jones, elder Carolyn Smith officiating. The local D.A.V. and V.F.W. will perform military rites for Mr. Prior. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. In Lieu of flowers please make contributions to Jewish Voice Ministry at P.O. Box 31998 Phonex Az 85446 A memorial video has been created for family and friends at: Holding Funeral Home will update when finalized. An online register is available for the family of Mr. Curtis Prior at www.holdingfuneralhome.com Holding Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Curtis Prior.

Curtis Prior

August 12, 1946 - April 8, 2025

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