Obituary: Charles R. Priest

Charles R. Priest

BRUNSWICK – Charles R. Priest, 80, passed away on July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on Feb. 7, 1946, at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., Charlie was the son of Suzanne Randall Priest and Charles Priest, sister to Sharon Kearns and brother to Michael Priest.

Charlie was a devoted husband to Patricia Ryan and a loving father to his daughters, Clare E.T. Priest of Chanhassen, Minn., and Jennifer R. Reed of Washington, D.C. He was a proud grandfather to Athena and Chiron, who brought him great joy.

A graduate of Dartmouth College, Charlie answered the call to serve his country as a lieutenant in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He served as an advisor aboard a Vietnamese gunboat before returning home to Maine, where he earned his law degree from the University of Maine School of Law and began a career as an attorney.

Throughout his life, Charlie believed deeply in public service. He represented Brunswick in the Maine Legislature for 14 years, where he earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle. During his final two terms, he served as House Chair of the Judiciary Committee, helping to shape thoughtful and lasting legislation for the people of Maine.

His commitment to his community extended well beyond the State House. Charlie served on the Brunswick Town Council, including as its Chair, and was among the earliest members appointed to the Brunswick Cable TV Committee, where he continued to serve for many years, most recently as Vice Chair.In 2005 he was appointed to the Brunswick Sewer District Board of Trustees and served as its Chair beginning in 2006, providing steady leadership for two decades.

Charlie loved learning. When he wasn’t working, he could often be found reading several books at once or studying new languages. In his late 40s, he learned to read and speak Chinese and traveled to China with his teacher. His lifelong curiosity made him easy to talk with and genuinely interested in others’ perspectives.

Charlie was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Brunswick. His life was marked by integrity, wisdom, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to serving others. He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his generosity, thoughtful counsel, and commitment to his family, friends, and community.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Brunswick on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 10 a.m.

Memories and condolences can be shared at http://www.brackettfh.com .

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

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