Born July 8, 1927, our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, Emmie Charlton Smith Pruyn, passed away Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at the age of 96. Visitation will be held at Broadmoor United Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 from 9:30 am until service at 11:00 am, Rev. Tom Cook officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park.
She is survived by her daughters, Katherine Pruyn Caldwell and husband Steve, and Cynthia Pruyn Musso and husband Rick, all of Baton Rouge; grandchildren, John Gordon Musso, Katherine Elizabeth “Katie” Musso and wife Brittany, all of Baton Rouge, Lauren Clare Musso, Los Angeles CA, Bennett Davis Caldwell, Denver CO, Preston Geil Caldwell, Liberal KS; great granddaughter, Meryl Jean Musso, Baton Rouge; brother, John S. Smith Jr., San Antonio TX; sister Bitsy Kostelecky, Houston TX; brothers-in-law Robert O. Pruyn, Amarillo TX and Thaddeus D. Pruyn, Tomball TX; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband of 62 years, Hugh Gordon Pruyn; her parents, John Skipwith and Goldie Charlton Smith; sisters Betty Morgan and husband Arthur, Mary Effie Franklin and husband Jasper; brothers-in-law Fred Kostelecky and Robert Meade; sisters-in-law Sammie Smith, Mary Anne Meade, Genny Pruyn, Janet Pruyn and Juanita Pruyn.
She was born in Wilson, LA, and her family later moved to Baton Rouge where she resided until her death. The importance of God and family was instilled in her at a young age and she was devoted to faith and family throughout her life. She always put others before herself and always maintained a positive, optimistic attitude, even when facing adversity.
She attended Istrouma High School and Louisiana State University. She worked part-time in the secretarial pool at the Standard Oil (now Exxon) Refinery while attending LSU and was then hired full-time as an Executive Secretary, where she worked for the man who became President and Chairman of Exxon Corporation. It was at Exxon that her best friend introduced her to the man she fell in love with, who became her husband and lifelong partner. Theirs was truly a wonderful partnership, so much so that they always called each other “Pard.”
She was a long-time member of Broadmoor United Methodist Church, where she was a founding member of the Lamplighters Sunday School Class, a member of the Saints Alive Choir and a volunteer in the BUMC Administration Office. She was also a member of PEO Chapter AA and an active member of the community in various roles as troop leader, room mother, school volunteer, and long-time volunteer for the LSU Book Bazaar.
She had the most beautiful smile that could light up any room, and was the most gracious, loving, and compassionate woman. She was engaged and interested in everyone she met. Her home was a happy place where the doors were always open and friends and family were always welcome. Although small in stature, her spirit was huge and her strength was immeasurable. She touched the lives of all who knew her. She will be truly missed and lovingly remembered.
Special thanks to the staff at Holly Court, the wonderful group of sitters who cared for her for more than two years, and to Audubon Hospice. All were a Godsend to our family, and we are forever grateful for the love and care given.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BUMC Music Ministries, 10230 Mollylea Drive, Baton Rouge LA, 70815.
