Jamie Ruffner Priest

Jamie Ruffner Priest, age 62, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving husband, daughters and siblings. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, March 18, 2024, at West Cobb Funeral Home in Marietta, with Pastor David Stein officiating. Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Smyrna, Georgia.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, Mrs. Priest eventually settled in Tennessee before making her home in Smyrna and Marietta for most of her life. She was a beloved figure in her community, known for her passion for children and dedication to childcare. “Mrs. Jamie” owned and operated Children Are Special Early Learning Center in Marietta for 22 years, retiring with a total of 28 years in the childcare profession. Her impact on countless families will be remembered fondly.

A member of Revolution Church in Canton, GA, Jamie found joy and comfort in her faith. She had a zest for life, enjoying travel, cruises, and cherished moments at the beach, which she affectionately referred to as her "Happy Place." Jamie also had a talent for southern cooking and delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will be forever treasured.

Mrs. Priest was preceded in death by her parents, James Ruffner and Sylvia Reece, and a sister, Mickey Ruffner. 

She is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Gary Kenneth Priest, her three daughters, Jennifer (Josh) Goodwin of Canton, GA, Christy O'Shields (William Lessig) of Kissimmee, FL, and Mary (Jeremy) Goodwin of Acworth, GA, as well as her siblings Marsha (Rick) Wadsworth of Powder Springs, GA, Jimmy Ruffner, of Marietta, GA, Denise (Larry) Brock of Cartersville, GA, and beloved best friend/sister Ginger Brown of Jefferson, GA, Stepfather Buddy (Joleen) Reece of Powder Springs and her adoring grandchildren, Jackson, Aiden, Aubrey, Jacob, Addalyne, and Alec. 

She is also survived by countless other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, family friends, and several CAS parents and kids that are now considered family. 

The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 17, 2024, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at West Cobb Funeral Home in Marietta, Georgia. Jamie's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.