Vanus Joseph Priestley

Vanus attended St. Augustine High School and pursued higher education at the University of New Orleans and New York University. He dedicated 25 years to the United States Coast Guard, rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. After retiring, he returned to New Orleans and worked for his father, eventually taking over Priestley Landscaping.

Vanus was married to his loving wife, Ruth Mesker Priestley. He is survived by his son, Jonathan Mesker (Rebeka), daughter, Vanjia Priestley Thomas (Michael), and son, Vanus Priestley Jr. He was a proud grandfather to Cooper Mesker, Camryn Mesker, and Amanda Priestley. Vanus is also survived by his sister, Laverne Priestley Fleming (Elwood), along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, a great-great-nephew, along with many cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Weber Priestley, father, Joseph Milton Priestley, sister, Jennifer Priestley Fernandez, and his brother, Wayne Priestley.

In his personal life, Vanus loved music, sing-alongs, and sports. He was known as the life of the party at family gatherings, often directing the music and sing-alongs. His love for his family and theirs for him will leave them with many cherished memories. He will always be in our hearts and missed by us all.

Vanus will be honored by the US Coast Guard with a Burial at Sea. A Celebration of Life will be held in the future.