Propst was born in Ohatchee, Alabama and graduated from Gadsden High School.
He received a Bachelor of Science degree in commerce from the University of Alabama in 1953 and a Juris Doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1957.
[1] He was in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 and was the deputy finance and accounting officer at Camp Stewart, Georgia.
[2] On January 10, 1980, Propst was nominated by President Jimmy Carter to a new seat on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama created by 92 Stat.
He was confirmed by the United States Senate on May 29, 1980, and received his commission on May 30, 1980.