Jessie Ray Pratt

Jessie Ray Pratt, 74, of Pensacola, FL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2014. Jessie was born in Portageville, MO in August of 1939. He was preceded in death by his mother Geneva Molin, father Jesse E Pratt, brother James E Pratt, and daughter Judith A Pratt.Jessie served his country with the United States Air Force for 20-plus years as an aircraft mechanic. Being in the Air Force gave him the opportunity to travel and see the world where he met his beautiful bride in the Philippines. After retiring as a Staff Sergeant with the Air Force he took his skills as a mechanic to the civilian world. He worked as an automotive mechanic and later on as an over the road truck driver with 5 different companies. Jessie's varied life and job experiences made him complex and the great man he was.

He was a beloved husband, wonderful father, a great uncle, a caring grandpa, and thoughtful friend. Jessie loved to spend time with his family taking trips and sometimes taking them along with him on the road. He loved watching baseball and football on the weekends and grilling out with the family. Family was important to him and he lived to make sure they were taken care of and happy.Jessie is survived by his beautiful wife of 38 years, Helaria A. Pratt, his children Janet Cons Ledesma (Manny), James Pratt (Amanda), Betty Bent, Lorie Rani (Rodney) and Sheri Danser (Chad). He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

A visitation with reception will be held at Oak Lawn Funeral Home on Monday, February 24, 2014 from 5pm to 7pm. The funeral mass will be held at Little Flower Catholic Church on Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at 11am with Father Eugene Casserly officiating. Burial with full military honors at Barrancas National Cemetery, aboard NAS Pensacola, to follow.Oak Lawn Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.