The Cleethorpes community mourns the loss of Stephen Priestley, a cherished licensee known for his dedication and warmth in the hospitality industry.
Stephen ran The Pear Tree on Grimsby Road for many years. His daughter, Georgina, is now keeping the family tradition alive as an assistant manager there.
All four of Stephen and Bev’s kids have worked in hospitality, thanks to their dad. Even his son-in-law, Mark, and grandson, Jack, are part of the family business.
Samantha, his daughter, shared that her parents were married for 31 years. Tragically, Stephen was diagnosed with terminal cancer last December. He passed away on January 12 at Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby, where he received excellent care.
Samantha praised the staff, saying they were wonderful and consistent throughout his stay. Stephen was originally from Louth and studied food technology at Grimsby College.
He started working in catering at The Beachcomber in Humberston when he was just 16. Over the years, he worked at various venues before taking over The Trading Post in 1998, which became The Pear Tree in 2004.
His family can’t even guess how many people he served daily. Samantha mentioned that it was always busy, especially on weekends. Stephen was a dedicated licensee, often working long hours, even on family holidays.
He loved sports, especially swimming and football, and had a passion for deep-sea diving after a trip to The Maldives.
After leaving the catering scene in 2010, he worked at St Hugh’s Hospital and in car sales. Samantha said he had a strong work ethic and enjoyed a fulfilling retirement with family and friends.
Knowing his illness was terminal, the family respected his wish for no funeral service. Instead, they invite everyone to raise a glass to Stephen at The Pear Tree this Friday at 3 PM, with an informal dress code.
Stephen and Bev have known many of their customers for decades. They have four children and five grandchildren. Samantha, who previously ran The Linden Club, promised to honor her father’s wishes.
Bev shared that Stephen was her soulmate, and they made many happy memories together. Samantha vowed to carry on his legacy, saying she’s very much her father’s daughter.
