Theresa Nicole Priest

February 27, 1974 to July 25, 2026 

Theresa Nicole Priest (52) passed away on July 25, 2026 at home surrounded by family. Theresa was born in Bakersfield on February 27, 1974 to loving parents, Steven and Marilyn Hacker. Theresa was a devoted wife, granddaughter, daughter, mother, sister, grandmother and aunt who’s life was defined by compassion, lifelong learning, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Theresa attended Shafter High School, and earned her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Public Administration from Cal State Bakersfield. She dedicated her entire adult life to the nonprofit sector, most recently serving with the Community Action Partnership of Kern County. Theresa found genuine joy in her work, helping individuals and families in her community and forming lasting bonds with her colleagues. Her career was a true reflection of her generous spirit and desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those around her.

Theresa is survived by her loving husband of 22 years, Jeff Priest, her parents, Steven and Marilyn Hacker of Hooper Utah, her sister, Lindsay Hacker-Peters of Hooper Utah, her daughters, Shelbie Bynum (husband James Prisco) of Minot North Dakota, and Jordan Bynum of Bakersfield; her son Seth Priest of Bakersfield; stepdaughter Sydnee Hodson (husband Tyler Hodson) of Bakersfield, stepson Trystan Priest of Owensboro Kentucky and her paternal grandmother, Imogene E. Aukland of Bakersfield. She is also survived by 5 cherished grandchildren: Ryan Prisco, Cheyene Hodson, Falyn Hodson, Justin Hodson, and Lyndie Priest. Theresa was preceded in death by her grandparents, William C. Hacker, Leon Edwards, Virginia F. Moren and her beloved granddaughters Paige Lanquist and Abigail Bynum-Sanchez.

In her personal time, Theresa cherished her miniature dachshunds, nurtured her plants with care, found endless joy in reading, mostly religious and self help books, and of course, thrift shopping. Theresa could find a deal faster than anyone. Most of all she loved spending time with Jeff.

Theresa will be remembered for her warm heart, love of family and the quiet strength she brought to every roll she filled. Her presence touched countless lives through her work, her friendships, and above all, her devotion to those she loved.

Please join us in a celebration of life for Theresa on August 22 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Monarch Memorial Funeral Home located at 2801 F St. Bakersfield, Ca. 93301