Roger Hugh Priester Sr.

Roger Hugh Priester Sr., known affectionately as “Jolly Roger,” sailed through life with a sense of adventure, a painter’s eye, a sailor’s heart, and a humor that could light up any room. He passed away peacefully at his home in Trent Woods, North Carolina, on March 27, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born on October 9, 1933, in Jacksonville, Florida, Roger’s life was a tapestry of experiences that spanned continents, careers, and creative passions. He met his soulmate, Virginia Wilson, in Pensacola, Florida, during his Navy service, a chance encounter in a pharmacy that sparked a lifelong partnership full of love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they would build a life that was as full of curiosity and daring as it was of warmth and joy.

Roger’s career began in the pulp mill industry, but his talents and determination quickly propelled him across state and national borders. In 1970, he joined Weyerhaeuser in New Bern, North Carolina, where he helped establish a new facility—and, inspired to grow further, pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Engineering from North Carolina State University. His expertise was soon sought internationally, leading him to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, where he ran Irving Pulp and Paper. Later, he became an entrepreneur, developing waste-to-energy plants in Maine and Long Island, New York, and opening opportunities across the globe. Wherever the work took them, Roger and Virginia traveled together, embracing life fully and often hilariously.

Retirement did not slow their wanderlust. They settled briefly in Bermuda, then embraced their shared passion for sailing. Whether navigating oceans, coasting along shores, or entertaining friends aboard their boats, their laughter was as constant as the waves beneath their hulls. Roger’s nickname “Jolly” Roger was earned in every anecdote, every story, every mischievous grin shared with friends and family across decades.

A lifelong artist, Roger painted clipper ships, portraits, and scenes that captured the spirit of his life and travels. Virginia’s talent complemented his—she was a master seamstress and gardener, creating everything from wedding dresses to boat sails, cushions, biminis, and draperies, leaving everyone who saw her work in awe. Together, they were unstoppable—a dynamic duo of creativity, wit, and charm.

Roger was also devoted to his community. A 32nd-degree Scottish Rite Mason since 1962 and a member of the Sudan Shriners at Grantham Lodge 725 from 1973 to 2001, he was recognized in Who’s Who in North Carolina in 1973 for his contributions as a distinguished citizen. He and Virginia were among the first families to help establish the Riverbend community in New Bern, a place that would become home to thousands.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia Wilson Priester; his son, Roger Hugh Priester Jr. (Skipper); his parents, Hugh Harbrook Priester and Pearl Meggs Priester; and many siblings.

Roger is survived by his daughters, Norma Priester Sparrow (Gary) and Brenda Priester Hampton; his grandchildren, Amy Hampton Goodwin (Charles Raymond), Eric Lewis Sparrow, and Lindsay Sparrow MacDavid (Josh); and his great-grandson, Charles Reagan Goodwin.

A private family burial at sea will take place on April 19, 2026, along the Carolina Coast, on their wedding anniversary, where Roger will be laid to rest alongside Virginia—the final voyage of a life filled with exploration, laughter, love, and artistry.

Roger’s life cannot be measured by titles, degrees, or accolades alone—it is remembered in the joy he brought to every room, the beauty he created with his hands and heart, and the stories of adventure, laughter, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Cotten Funeral & Crematory is honored to serve the Priester family.