Wayne Allen Pryor

Wayne Allen Pryor, born July 21, 1947, in Salem, Missouri, passed away January 4, 2026, in Salem, Missouri. He was the son of Ray and June (Clements) Pryor. Wayne grew up in Boss and in his young childhood years moved to St. Louis, Missouri, before moving back to Salem in the late nineties. Wayne enlisted into the United States Marine Corp and served his country faithfully for four years. For his honorable service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal, Vietnamese Campaign Medal with design, and Good Conduct Medal. On June 25, 1968, Wayne was united in marriage to the love of his life, Karen Ruth Cowin. They shared fifty-one years of lasting memories before her passing November 3, 2019. Wayne and Karen were blessed with two sons, Ronnie and Stace, eleven grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. Wayne was a very hard worker. Throughout his working career he worked in the salt mines in Cleveland, Ohio, at Cominco Mines, and at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center. He also ran a small engine shop out of his home and made boat covers alongside his wife for many years. In his spare time, Wayne loved to go fishing and boating at Bull Shoals Lake with his sons. He enjoyed hunting with his father, uncle, and friends. Wayne also liked to go hiking and walking through the woods. Spending time with family and friends was most important to him and liked fish fry’s and barbecues. Wayne was a man of strong faith. He was baptized by Tooter Pryor in Huzzah Creek. Wayne loved being involved at Boss Assembly of God Church where he served as a deacon and helped with the Royal Rangers. Wayne is survived by his sons: Ronnie Pryor of Salem, MO and Stace Pryor and wife Jody of Salem, MO; sisters: Marsha McVey and husband Nelson of Hot Springs, AR and Lisa Wells and husband Glenn of Ballwin, MO; grandchildren: Angel, Dana, Dillon, Austin, Storm, Mathies, Brandon, Kiara, Adrianna, Elizabeth, and Karen; many great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his loving wife: Karen Pryor and parents: Ray and June (Clements) Pryor. His life was a testament to his unwavering love for family and deep-rooted faith leaving behind a legacy of selfless love, compassion, and devotion. Family meant everything to Wayne; he was a constant source of strength and support. His legacy will continue on through the values of love, kindness and devotion instilled in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Wayne will be forever missed. Memorial Services were held Saturday, February 28, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Military Honors was provided by the United States Marine Corp and American Legion Post 99. Leave the family a condolence on his tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Wayne Allen Pryor

July 21, 1947 - January 4, 2026