Brenda Jean Priar, 78, of Owensboro passed away January 30, 2026. She was born on April 21, 1947, to the late John Edward Cox and Betty Jean McDonald.
Brenda was described by her family as someone with many talents—good at just about everything she put her hands to. She was especially crafty and found great joy in crocheting and knitting, often creating things with love for those around her. Brenda enjoyed reading, playing the organ, and listening to old country music, which always felt like home to her. Above all else, she dearly loved her family, with a special place in her heart for her grandchildren. An incredible cook, Brenda was known for filling her home with comfort and tradition, and her chess bars and giblet gravy were family favorites that will be forever missed. Loyal, selfless, and hardworking, Brenda carried those same qualities into her career, where she faithfully served at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital as a Cancer Registrar for more than 18 years.
Along with her parents, Brenda is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Priar, and her son, Stephen Clark.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Christopher Patterson, Lisa Patton, and Jason (Amy) Priar; fifteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and her siblings, Karen Rather, James Cox, Edna (Jim) Terry, Susan Allen, and Blanch Allen.
Funeral services will be 12:00 pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, with Joshua Clark and Logan Clark co-officiating. Visitation will take place, on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. Burial to follow the service at Green Brier Cemetery.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Brenda Jean Priar. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mrs. Priar and sign their virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.