Clarence E. Pritts

The Rev. Clarence Edward Pritts, 76, of Berlin, died October 29, 2022 at The Heritage at Siemon's in Somerset, Pennsylvania. He was born June 16, 1946 in Brooklyn Park, Maryland. He is the son of Clarence O. and Eleanor H. (Mosholder) Pritts. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Donna L. Richards. He is survived by many close and longtime friends. Following his June 1964 high school graduation in Brooklyn Park, Maryland, he attended Frostburg State College. In June 1968, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in history, from the College (now Frostburg State University). During his Senior year at Frostburg State College he was the Editor-in-Chief of the 1968 edition of the College yearbook, Nemacolin; having previously served on the yearbook staff during his Sophomore and Junior years. He was also active in the College's History Club, Phi Alpha Theta (National Honorary History Fraternity), Spanish Club, and a member of the choral ensemble Collegium Musicum. Following his 1968 graduation from Frostburg State College, he was employed as a history teacher at Severna Park High School in Severna Park, Maryland. During his tenure on the High School faculty, he was advisor to the student staff of the School's yearbook. He also received a Master's Degree from Johns Hopkins University.
After teaching at Severna Park High School for almost 10 years, he entered the General Theological Seminary in New York City. After completion of the course of study at the Seminary, he became a priest of the Episcopal Church, having been ordained deacon at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Baltimore, Maryland on June 16, 1984. Following his ordination, he was Curate at St. John's in West Hartford, Connecticut (1984-1988); Rector of Christ Church in West River, Maryland (1988-1995); and Rector of Grace Church in Merchantville, New Jersey (1995-2007). Following his retirement from the priesthood in November 2007, he relocated his residence to Somerset County, Pennsylvania, which is the home of his ancestors. He was a member of Saint James Episcopal Church in Bedford, Pennsylvania. He had an avid interest in antiquities and historical events, particularly the Columbia Exposition that was held at Chicago in 1892. He also enjoyed opera. A graveside service at the family plot at Rockwood IOOF Cemetery will be held at 10:00am, Wednesday, November 9 with Father Jeffrey Bassette of St. James Episcopal Church officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. James Episcopal Church 309 S Richard St, Bedford, PA 15522. To leave a condolence please visit www.haugerzeigler.com

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