Nici (Walker) Priest

Nicolo "Nici" (Walker) Priest, 56, of Grand Island, NE, died November 29, 2024 at CHI Health St Francis following a courageous battle with cancer. 

She was born September 29, 1968 in Biloxi, MS, daughter of Richard Walker and Cordelia Aden. She grew up in Hooper and Gothenburg and graduated from Gothenburg High School with the class on 1986. Following graduation, she moved to California for a few years before moving back to Nebraska and settling in Cozad. She married Rex Newbrey and to this union two children were born: Tiana and Javin. They later divorced. 

Nici enjoyed spending time outside and enjoyed tending to her plants and garden. She was an avid traveler and was always up for an adventure. Most of all, she loved to spend time with her family, especially her kids and grandkids. Nici was a hard worker and made lasting relationships wherever she worked. She started as an assistant manager at Wendy's in North Platte before becoming the general Manager of Wendy's in Grand Island until her passing. 

Survivors include daughter, Tiana Newbrey and son Javin Newbrey; grandchildren, Ashton Newbrey, Ryker Newbrey, and Easton Tanner, mother, Cordelia (Tim) Aden, sisters, Wendy Walker, Mandi (John) Lehmkuhler, and best-friend Terri Wilder along with many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. 

Nici was proceeded in death by her son, Ryan Kabella, and her grandparents. 

Memorial Services will be held, Saturday, December 7, 2024, 2:00 pm, at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, 620 10th St., Gothenburg, Nebraska.  

Burial will follow in the American Lutheran Cemetery, Gothenburg, Nebraska.

Memorials may be sent to the family for later designation.