Lawrence Anthony “Tony” Prien, Jr., born as a gift to his loving parents on Christmas Day in 1963 in Amarillo, TX. He was also welcomed by his big sister, Darla. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of the times he spent with his Grandpa Risley.
As a proud Texan, he grew to manhood with a strong sense of loyalty and dedication to his country, family, and friends. Joining the U.S. Marines at age 17 to proudly serve his country, gave him the opportunity to travel the world. He then transferred to the U.S. Army and finally to the National Guard, where he proudly retired as a Sergeant.
While not on duty with the National Guard, he worked as a civilian contractor completing multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. From there he moved into HVAC/R, where he was currently employed as a district manager for Walmart.
His family was the most important aspect of his life. When he spoke of his beautiful wife, Jessica, or any of his children, there was a smile on his lips and a light in his eyes. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He was especially close to his granddaughter, Emery.
While serving in the military, he found another brotherhood with the BWC. He had many brothers, but his closest and most treasured friends were Jeff Milliken, Brian Stofko, and Lee Carter. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and competed as a clown in many memorable competitions.
In his free time, he loved to play with his kids, ride his Harley, work in his yard, fish, or just hang out.
Tony believed in reaching out to others, he volunteered many hours of service to his community and always made himself available to others. He loved a good joke and his easy personality endeared him to all he came into contact with. Tony will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jessica; his children, Kyndra, Jaykob, Teighlar, Katrina, Ashlee, Britney, Richard, and Lil Tony; father, Lawrence “Larry” Sr.; sister, Darla and spouse Johnny; six grandchildren; mother and father-in-law, Brooks and Angela; sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Jeffery. Also many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and beloved dog, Nala. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sue Sechrist and his grandparents.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2016, at 12:30 PM at the Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Chapel with Doug Wilson and Garrett Milliken officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 24, 2016, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 25, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jessica Prien, 417 Todd Phillips Trail, and Clarksville, TN 37042.
Arrangements entrusted to Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN 37040.