BILLI LAVENE (SHUFORD) PRIEST

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Billi Lavene (Shuford) Priest, who left this world on May 22, 2026, at the age of 82. Billi took her final breath at home in the loving embrace of her family, a testament to the life she cherished, and the love she bestowed upon those around her.

Billi was born on January 9, 1944, in the picturesque town of Astoria, Oregon, to the late William Clarence Shuford and Nancy Ethel (Burch) Shuford. She spent her childhood at Camp Mongold and then Mill City, Oregon. She was a beacon of resilience, strength, and warmth, traits she carried throughout her life and instilled in her family.

In 1985, Billi found her soulmate in Louie Priest. Their marriage, a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and shared adventures, spanned 41 wonderful years in Keizer, Oregon. Together, they built a family that was the center of Billi's world, a source of pride and joy in each of her days.

Billi was blessed with three children and three stepchildren: Tonya Opeifa (Salem), Annie Herneisen (Bob), Margo Palmer (Travis), Greg Priest, Doug Priest (Lacey) and Debbie Priest. Her legacy extends through her cherished grandchildren: Matt Ohrt, Dan Ohrt, Yemi Opeifa, Brett Katlong, Tara Katlong, Bryce Katlong, Alex Katlong, Dallis Hamlin, Dakota Nimmo, Mason Priest, Haley Priest, Lacey Barnhart, Ashley Ring, Kennedy Priest, Hadley Priest and Kanton Davis. Each of these lives she touched profoundly, and she drew immense joy from her role as a grandmother, further enriched by her 15 great-grandchildren, and many other family members.

Billi was predeceased by her parents, William Clarence Shuford and Nancy Ethel (Burch) Shuford as well as her dear family members Tara Noel Katlong, Greg Priest, and Debbie Priest. Their memories were held close to her heart, and she spoke of them often with love and warmth.

A woman of varied interests, Billi found peace and contentment in the outdoors. She was an avid fisherman and hunter, finding solace in the quiet call of nature. Her garden was a testament to her nurturing spirit, a sanctuary where she cultivated not just plants, but a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. She also loved to sew and was a Camp Fire Girls leader. Above all, Billi's greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved family, sharing stories, laughter, and love that will echo in their hearts forever.

Billi’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and resilience. She was a woman who found beauty in the simple things and strength in the bonds she formed. Her legacy is one of kindness, courage, and a deep, abiding love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in honor of Billi’s generous spirit. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a guiding light for those who continue to cherish her.