Larry Lee Pruitt, age 77, was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior and his beloved wife, Janet Lee Pruitt, on Friday, October 11, 2024. A lifelong resident of Tangier Island, VA, Larry was born October 18, 1946 to the late Smith and Viola Parks Pruitt.
Like most Tangierman, working on the water was in Larry's blood. He worked alongside his dad from the time he could pull a pot until he purchased his own boat as a young man. In addition to captaining his boat, he also worked on the tug for Vane Brothers for many years. Larry was active throughout his community and always went out of his way to help his friends and neighbors. A God-fearing man, Larry lived his faith openly, setting an example for all around him. He was an active member of Swain Memorial United Methodist Church, where he also participated in the choir, and a faithful member of the Tangier Volunteer Fire Department for 53 years, serving 40 years as Vice President. Larry always looked forward to mornings in the "situation room," where the men would gather to discuss various topics over coffee.
Larry's love for his family was boundless. He shared a special bond with his sister, Charlotte, and their daily conversations were a testament to their close relationship. He was a father figure to his nieces, Ginna and Jackie, and adored his nine grandsons, always lighting up in their presence. The love he had for them was evident through the special bond he shared with each of them.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his sister, Charlotte Parks and her husband, Ed; special nieces, Ginna Giles and Jackie Thomas; grandchildren, Brandon Thomas, Zachary Creedle, Christian Creedle, Kevin Thomas and Tyler Giles; great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Liam, Layton, and Nash Thomas; nieces, Beth Thomas, Kathy Pruitt, and Laura Landon; nephews, Terry Gene Crockett, Will Crockett, Russell Crockett, Edward Parks, Jr., and William Parks; sister in law, Barb McCready; and many friends. Other than his wife and parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Eldora Crockett and her husband, Donnie; brother, Charlie Pruitt and his wife, Jerry; nephews, Don Crockett and Chuck Pruitt; and his parents-in-law, Ginny Belle and Lawson Pruitt.
A service to celebrate Larry's life was held at Swain Memorial United Methodist Church on his 78th birthday, Friday, October 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., with The Reverend Charles W. Parks III and Elder Duane Crockett officiating. Family and friends were invited to gather at the church for a time of sharing one hour prior to the service.
Contributions in Larry's memory may be made to Swain Memorial UMC, P.O. Box 199, Tangier, VA 23440, or the Tangier Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 239, Tangier, VA 23440.
Memorial tributes can be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements were by Williams Funeral Homes, Onancock, VA, and Parksley, VA.