Hortense M. Priest,  affectionately known as “Arrie” was surrounded by her family when she received her wings on Tuesday, July 14, 2020.   She was born in Wilmington, DE on September 10, 1934. Hortense was an active member of Mt. Joy United Methodist Church; she enjoyed visiting different denominational churches.

She graduated from Howard High School, Delaware State College (University) and became a Business Education Teacher for 34 years.  Hortense was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and spent over 20 years volunteering for The Grand Opera House, the City of Wilmington, Lutheran Community Services, and numerous other organizations. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard DeShields and Ester Priest, adopted parents Richard and Natelen Matthews; and her brothers, David Priest and Richard DeShields Jr. 

Hortense leaves to cherish her precious memory, her daughter Sabrina Priest (Keith); granddaughter, Jenae Priest; sisters, B. Ann Washam, Julia Nelson, and Carolyn Roy; cousins/sisters, Sylvia Malone, Kathleen Wallace, and Elaine Murray; and god daughter Robin Martin.  She is also survived by other cousins, relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life Service will be 7:00 PM, Friday, July 24, 2020  at the Congo Legacy Center, 501 W. 28^th Street, Wilmington, DE. 19802 where her public viewing will be from 5:00-7:00 PM

Burial will take place in Gracelawn Memorial Park on July 25, 2020.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Delaware State University: Hortense Priest Scholarship, Delaware State University Foundation, 1200 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 19901.