Willard Francis Prior Jr. ’51

One of our most beloved and popular classmates, Will died of complications from Parkinson's disease July 18, 2005, in Albuquerque, N.M. He will long be remembered for his winning, infectious smile and his warm friendliness to all of us who were privileged to have known him.

Will was born in Oneida, N.Y., on June 29, 1929. After graduating from Oneida High School, he matriculated at Princeton, where he played on our undefeated football team and majored in history. He was also captain of the baseball team, a class officer, a member of Cannon Club, and a roommate of John Titman, Porky Clark, and John Groome.

After graduation, Will served two years in the Air Force and had a short career in professional baseball, after which he received a master's in history from Colgate. Will then began a teaching career at various secondary schools until, at 30, he was bitten by the quixotic bug – he joined the Peace Corps, and thus began his lifelong passion of championing the cause of the poor and the oppressed.

Will continued working for various organizations for many years, but later worked more often on his own. His vocation took him to many countries, but mainly to Central and South America. Along the way he gained a massive family of friends, fought for peace and justice, and dispensed tender loving care everywhere.

He is survived by his sister, Betsy; his brother-in-law, Dr. Jack Raycroft; and several nieces and nephews. Will, your moral point of view and your unselfish good works have made us proud – you will be sorely missed, but long remembered.

The Class of 1951

The Class of 1951