Horace Robert Griest

Horace R. “Bob” Griest, Jr., 73, of Conestoga, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at his residence.

Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Horace R. Griest , Sr. and Sara (Adams) Griest. He was the loving husband of Deborah L. Smith-Griest for over 46 years.

Bob was a lifelong resident of Lancaster County and a 1970 graduate of Lampeter-Strasburg High School. He continued his education at York College, graduating in 1972 with a degree in Sociology. He also attended Dickinson Law School, where he completed his Deputy Sheriff training. Throughout his career, Bob dedicated himself to public service. He served as the District Representative for Lancaster and York Counties while working for the John Hancock Insurance Company. Over the years, he held several positions including security guard for the Lancaster Welfare Office; Lancaster County Park Ranger; Lancaster County Deputy Sheriff, retiring in 2007; and Constable for Conestoga Township, retiring in 2016. Bob was also an active member of his community. He belonged to the Lancaster Optimist Rifle Club, where he competed as a rifle marksman, and was a member of the Conestoga Sertoma Club, Penn Manor Republican Club, Conestoga Republican Committeeman, and Conestoga Volunteer Fire Company. He also volunteered as a Little League baseball coach. In his spare time, Bob enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting and a good juicy steak dinner.

Bob is survived by his wife, Debbie; his children, Anthony Smith and Erin (Wilfredo) Ortiz; his brother, Wesley Griest; his nephew, Brandon Griest and his granddog Gizmo. He was predeceased by his parents and his granddog Murdock.

Friends and family will be received from 1PM to 2PM on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584. A Funeral Service will follow beginning at 2PM. Burial will take place at Conestoga Memorial Park.

Bob will be deeply missed for his fun-loving nature, humor, and love.