O r d e r  o f  S e r v i c e:

O p e n i n g P r a y e r

S c r i p t u r e

S o n g

O b it u a r y R e a d i n g

E u l o g y

Pallbearers

Nicolas Prior ,Robert Prior, Gregory Walters,  Dominick Littleton, David Lamar ,Deion Stratton

Honorary Pallbearers

Danny Prior Henry, Randy Prior Jr., Dominick Littleton Jr., Dominick Christian Littleton, James Prior, Henry Prior, Sarge Prior, Danny Daniels, Kevin Miles, James Waddell,  Derrick Wallace, Reggie Wallace 

Psalms 23:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

In Loving Memory

Alton Martin Prior was born on May 30, 1930 in Long Branch, Texas to Ela Mae & Anthony Prior. He was the youngest of 13 children. The family migrated to California when Alton was young. Finally settling in Coachella Valley, California. In his formative years he attended Coachella Valley High School. During which time he excelled at everything he aspired to achieve. An All-Star student, and Hall of Fame athlete. Especially proficient in Track and Field, Basketball, and Football. Additionally, Alton served as Vice President of the Student body, a member of the Student Council, Year book staff, and worked on the editing staff of the school’s newspaper. Amazingly, Alton still found the time to play in the school orchestra!

On the weekends, Alton worked at the town movie theatre as an usher. In light of his multifaceted talents, he was offered an editorial job with Sunset Magazine after high school. To this day Alton’s outstanding achievements remain commemorated in the Coachella Valley Hall of Fame. At the start of World War II, Alton was soon drafted into the United States Army. He was trained as an Army Mine Sweeper. Having the dangerously precarious job of clearing mine fields from sea lanes. Alton was awarded the following medals of honor: *Korean SYC Medal - Award for service or participation in operations in Korea. *Bronze Star – For heroic achievement and service. *Bronze Star – For sacrifice, bravery and honor while serving the country. (2) WWII Army of Occupation medals– Japan United Nations Service Medal He approached his military career with the same signature commitment and dedication. As a result, he ranked from Private to Sergeant, and was always very proud to have served. Alton was honorably discharged from the Army in 1953.

As promised in his letters from the battlefields of Korea, Alton married the love of his life Edith Verdine Wallace. They happily welcomed six children. When their first child was two years old, Alton & Edith decided to settle in San Diego, California. After establishing roots in San Diego, Alton acquired a position with Firestone Tires and Safeway Stores in the Service Department. Followed by a long-term position with Van de Kamp’s Bakery as a truck driver. Alton worked there for more than 25 years, until he eventually retired. Post retirement Alton worked for Steve Bartholomew Trucking as a U.S. Postal transport. Alton also helped his wife Edith to run Prior's Board & Care Senior Care Homes. Alton took pride in investing in hard work for his family. Carrying over the presiding theme of hard work and tireless dedication into his incredible work ethic.

Alton was raised with a strong faith in God, and a faithful and enthusiastic member of the Church. Attending and serving in membership first at Calvary Baptist Church under Dr. S.M. Lockridge. Having been a part of a recorded gospel quartet, Alton joined the Senior Choir. He was also a member of the Senior Brotherhood, and served as the church and State Secretary. He also worked in a mentorship capacity with the members of the Junior Brotherhood. During his service to Calvary, Alton often traveled to church and state events. He loved to talk about his adventures traveling with his colleagues in the Brotherhood organization, and often spoke fondly of this time with amazing stories to share. He later became a member of the Mt. Erie Baptist Church under the spiritual care of Pastor Walter G. Wells. He served as a much-valued member of the Deacon Board at Mt. Erie for several years. While in membership at Mt. Erie, Alton served the church in any needed capacity. The connections he made through his service to the church, garnered many lifelong friendships.

Alton worked diligently to provide a life for his children. He was ahead of his time, and had a smart head for business. Working toward securing his family's future. He wanted to give his family access to a better life. He enjoyed a childhood full of laughter with his sisters, brothers, and in-laws. His favorite company was visits from his cousins and many, many others. Some family would drive up to see him or stop-by for a visit, and he loved every moment. Dad loved his family dearly and wanted to find a way to bring them together, with the desire to cultivate an enduring legacy. With that goal in mind, Alton and Edith planned and organized the first ever Prior Family Reunion. Hosted in their home. Lots of food, laughter, and fun. The reunion locations have moved over the years, but always returned to where it all began. Family and friends near and far would come and enjoy the Family Reunion, and we were all kept close because of it. Exactly what he wanted.

Alton always pitched in, always helping others. However most of us remember him giving a listening ear, seasoned words of wisdom and sound advice. Sitting at the dining room table, with his Bible close at hand. Alton went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 5, 2020. He was preceded in death by his wife Edith Prior, and his beloved daughter Lisa Prior.

In his homegoing he leaves endless loving memories to his children and their families: Children: Charlotte Verdine Prior-Littleton, Danny Martin Prior & Lori Prior, Sheila Renee Waddell & James Waddell, Randy Allen Prior & Carol Prior, Cheryl Elaine Prior All residing in San Diego.

To Alton and Edith, their grandchildren were everything. There was nothing within his power that he would not do to ensure their happiness. He created a lifetime of memories, guidance, and wisdom. He provided for us in numerous ways but most importantly, with an overwhelming amount of infinite love and support. Their love was the best love. Always and forever.

Grandchildren: Leatrice Goodson, Katrina Lamar & David Lamar,  Dominick Littleton, Dayshawnna Littleton, Sabrina Mays & Anthony Mays, Tamara Waddell, Tiffany Byers & Norris Byers, Danielle Lester & Tyrone Lester, Danny Prior Henry, Randy Allen Prior Jr., Nicholas Jeremy Prior,  Ceval Benjamin, Michael Benjamin, Deion Prior Stratton & fiancé Bianca Brown, Lisa Regina Prior.

Great Grandchildren: Alyssa Elizabeth Goodson, Brie’aunna Lamar, Jourdan Lamar, Omari Mays, Dominick Christian Littleton, Dominick Wayne Littleton Jr., Deja Littleton, Daniel Littleton, Taylor Byers, Norris Cameron Byers, Caileigh Evans, Christian Spears, Taison Lester, Tyrone Lester Jr., Lee Lester-Norman III, Daniel Henry Prior, Denzel Grisgby,

Alton and Edith always had an open-door policy. Many lives were touched and came to call their house a home. Alton leaves to morn a host of beloved family, friends, and countless lives he has touched with his kindness.