Richard Ben Pruitt, 69, cherished Father and Grandfather, born October 22, 1953 in Castle Air Force Base, California, passed away on February 20, 2023 in a local hospital in Humble,TX. Richard graduated in 1971 from LaGrange High School in Lake Charles, then went on later to graduate from McNeese State University. Richard was a lifelong supporter of the McNeese Cowboys and Cowgirls. He regularly attended McNeese football, basketball and baseball games. He was also a member of the McNeese Cowboy Club for many years. Richard was never seen without a book close at hand; he was an avid reader of history. He thoroughly enjoyed a good conversation with people. Richard never met a stranger, was always smiling, quick to help others, quick witted and always had a kind word for someone. His grandsons kept him active in his later years with baseball, football, art, music concerts, etc. Richard was always there to support his three grandsons, as well as his two beloved daughters in all of their endeavors. His calm demeanor, unwavering support, and unconditional love, will be missed by all that knew him.
His memory will live on with his two beloved daughters, Keysha Zoey Pruitt of Splendora, Texas and Tessa Anastasia Simmons and husband Ronald Simmons of Tarkington Prairie,Texas; grandsons, Dominick Keel of Houston, Texas, Noah Keel and wife Tanessa Arnold of Katy, Texas, Jake Keel and wife Brooke Price of Tarkington Prairie,Texas; Mark-James Simmons of Tarkington Prarie,Texas; sister, Sandra Lewis and husband Alvin Lewis of Sulphur, Louisiana; brother, John William Pruitt and wife Kathy Pruitt of Friendswood,Texas; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard L. Pruitt and Norma Beatrice Teer Pruitt; sister, Suzan Pruitt; precious great nephew, Oliver Lewis; maternal grandparents, Ben and Minnie Mae Teer; along with his paternal grandparents, Lawrence W. and Melva Pruitt.
A Celebration of Richard's life will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Hixson-Sulphur Memorial Funeral Home, with Hixson Celebrant Jody Barrilleaux officiating. Visitation will begin at the funeral home prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 pm. The funeral home is located at 2051 E. Napoleon St. in Sulphur, LA 70663.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonsulphurmemorial.com.