James Pryor

James Pryor, 86, of New Philadelphia, Ohio formerly of Somerset, New Jersey died Monday, March 2, 2009 in Union Hospital at Dover following an extended illness.

Born October 25, 1922 in Monroe, Michigan, he was the son of the late Roberta Pryor Sherrell. He was also preceded in death by two sons John and Eric Pryor; a stepson, Stanley Tate and a brother, Leo Smith.

James retired in 1988 as an employee of Twin County Grocers in New Jersey where he worked for over twenty years. Following retirement, he and his wife, Evangeline returned to New Philadelphia.

James attended the First Baptist Church in Dover. He was an avid fisherman where he received numerous awards and also enjoyed playing poker and horse racing.

James was a U.S. Army Air Corp veteran where he received a Citation for Soldier's Medal. He served in the 314th Aviation Squadron and was recognized for heroism for rescuing a soldier from drowning on March 25, 1943.

James is survived by his wife of 34 years, Evangeline Walker Pryor whom he wed on June 1, 1975. He is also survived by a son, Gary (wife, Lynn) Pryor of Atlanta, Georgia; a stepson, Larry Tate of New Philadelphia; grandchildren, Leo Gary Pryor Jr., Leslie Pryor, James Garret Pryor, and Jessica Pryor. In addition, he is survived by brothers and sisters in law, Wilma Houston (Major Houston, deceased) of New Philadelphia, James and Evelyn Mills of Dover, Louis Walker of New York, and George Walker of Canton along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

A service celebrating James life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2009 at noon in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Dover with Rev. Christopher Lowery officiating. Interment will be in the Dover Burial Park where the Dover VFW will provide military honors. A reception will follow in the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 10am until the time of service. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of James may sign the online register book by visiting the "obituaries" link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

Memorials may be made to one's favorite charity.

Toland-Herzig, Dover
330 343-6132