James Pryor, Sr.

July 1, 1935 - February 2, 2021

James Pryor Sr., 85, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away peacefully at his home in Traverse City, MI on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. He was born on July 1, 1935 in Detroit, MI, to Joseph and Frances (Topolewski) Pryor. Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving with the 955 Field Artillery Battalion during the Korean War. He married the love of his life, Lydia Failer in 1956, at St. Julianna Roman Catholic Church in Detroit. Jim taught his children the importance of faith, family, hard work, and honesty. We admired his positive attitude and adventurous spirit. He had a successful career in the Automobile business that spanned more than 50 years. Jim enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and raising English Pointers. Many special memories were made at the family cottage near West Branch, as it brought the families together and keeps us close to this day. He will be deeply missed by his family; five children, Lynn, James Jr. (Sally), Michael (Patty), Diane and Kate; five grandchildren Megan, Libby, April, Katie and Ben; and one great grandchild Aubrey. He was predeceased by his wife, Lydia in 2013. He is also survived by a brother, Jerome Pryor, S.J., and brothers-in-law John Failer, Maurice (Kathy) Failer, and many cousins, nephews and nieces in the Failer, Picone, Topolewski and Jakubiec families. Per Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place, no formal services are currently planned. Condolences, memories, and photos can be shared with Jim’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The Pryor family is grateful for the excellent health care provided by the Traverse City Veteran’s Administration team. Those planning an expression of sympathy may consider a memorial to a Veteran’s or Sportsman’s association. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.