MARVIN PRITCHETT Obituary

PRITCHETT, MARVIN H., 80

Lake Butler, FL - Marvin H. Pritchett of Lake Butler, Florida, died August 24, 2013 at the age of 80. He was one of four victims of a tragic shooting by a former employee. Mr. Pritchett was a devoted family man, respected businessman, philanthropist, civic volunteer and a lifelong resident of Union County, Florida.

He was born on April 24, 1933 as the only child of Willie F. and Berla Johns Pritchett. After their passing, Mr. Pritchett was raised by his maternal grandmother. He excelled in football at Union County High School, where he graduated in 1951. He also received a scholarship and played football at Chipola Junior College in Marianna, Florida where he graduated in 1952.

Mr. Pritchett enlisted in the Army in 1953 and served overseas during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1955. After his return from the war, he purchased a local timber producer and began to build a business. While overseeing this company, he enrolled at the University of Florida and earned a BSBA (Business Administration) degree in 1959. During this time, Pritchett Timber continued to develop and expanded into the timber hauling business.

In 1973, Mr. Pritchett founded Pritchett Trucking, Inc., a large transportation company serving the Southeast, where he served as Chief Executive Officer. In 1992, he co-founded Nextran Corporation, a network of Mack and Volvo truck dealerships, where he served as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Pritchett was one of the founders of CNB National Bank, Lake City, Florida, a member of the board of directors of Mercantile Bank and actively involved in many other businesses including farming, cattle, forestry and mining.

Mr. Pritchett was active in several business and civic organizations, serving as Chairman of the Board of the County Commissioners, Union County, the Union County School Board and a long time board member at Florida Gateway College (Lake City Community College). He was a past president of the Florida Forestry Association, served with the Bradford - Union County Cattlemen's Association and a member of the executive committee of the Florida Trucking Association. He was an active member of the Florida Republican Party and a proud Bull Gator supporter of the University of Florida. His volunteer services included funding of many activities at Union County schools and First Christian Church. He was honored in 1994 by the State Department of Education with the Business Recognition Award for North Florida and was inducted into the Union County High School Hall of Fame.

Marvin was a devoted husband, wonderful father and beloved grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Margaret; his sons and their wives, Jon and Kelly Pritchett and Phillip and Emily Pritchett; his daughter Robin Pritchett Wilson; stepchildren, Carl Drake, Greg Drake (Rena) and Denise Willis (Mike); grandchildren, Nicole, Erika, Loren, Kendyl, Preston, Alexandra, Christina, Elizabeth, Catherine, Austin, Ashley, Sydney and Luke; great grandchildren, Bailey, Graysen and by hundreds of devoted employees and friends.

The family will receive friends at First Christian Church of Lake Butler on Thursday, August 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. A celebration of his life will be held at the First Christian Church on Friday, August 30, 2013 at 2:00 pm with Brother Arthur O. Peterson officiating. Burial will follow at Dekle Cemetery in Lake Butler.

Arrangements are the under the care of Archer Funeral Home located at 55 North Lake Ave., Lake Butler, Fl. 32054-1733. (Email: [email protected])

The Pritchett family has created a victims' fund in honor and support of the David Griffis family, Rolando Gonzalez-Delgado Family and the Lewis Mabrey family. In lieu of flowers you may donate to this fund at TD Bank, Lake Butler, FL. Make all checks to the Victims Fund.

Published by Gainesville Sun from Aug. 28 to Aug. 30, 2013.
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I had the PRIVILEGE to have gone to school with Mr Marvin Pritchett's son, PHILIP PRITCHETT. I did not know I had the ability to read people as fast as I could. We would go out together have a good time but something always told me or something special about this man, I didn't know what but I called it a southern gentleman. And I mean that w/ the greatest respect. I didn't know if he had two nickels or two million, but I knew he was the classiest and the finest young man I've ever met. I thought I was cool, but when I saw him I said that's ANOTHER LEVEL OF COOL. I was lucky enough to meet MR MARVIN AND SON JON. I immediately understood what I saw in Philip. I saw what I saw in Philip In 30 seconds shaking hands with Jon & Mr Marvin.
The last person to meet was Ms Margaret Pritchett. Talk about leaving an impression on someone, just speaking with her some of the most special times in my life. it was nothing about what they owned or what they did, it was the way to handle themselves and how they handled others. Never seen a family w/ more class, and I have more respect for them than anyone that walks to this planet.
I was lucky enough to work for them, those were the most proud days of my life. What I was being taught and surrounded by I did not soak in immediately other than my skills of selling. Honestly I had some personal issues that put a hurting on my family and the Pritchett's. After the best 10 years at work it was time for me to move on. The biggest regret of what I got into because that was not me but it damn sure was me and did not know how I got there and you couldn't find my way out. Curtis job you could ever have when you go to work with so much pride for who you work for but then you lose pride in what you do for yourself. I'll let myself down in my family but most of all I love it the people that gave me the opportunity of a lifetime to work 50 years for the greatest family and job I can ever dream of. All grown up now and have been for years, not a day goes by that I do not think about the family and something that I learned and still learn today from the experience. GOD BLESS THE PRITCHETT FAMILY, because if you got one minute it was one of them you were blessed for life. Tears roll down my face right now, naturally love that family and miss them. Thank you for everything and I apologize greatly from the bottom of my soul.
Respectfully & Sincerely,
Sean M Lavelle

Sean Lavelle

Friend

December 15, 2020

Mr. Pritchett was a catalyst in creating the man I am today. I worked for him and the Pritchett family for only 2 years in the mid 90's but I was able to see how a man should handle himself not just at work but with family and the community. I did not realize what an impact those 2 short years had on me until his passing 7 years ago. I have not always been perfect but my life is better and I am better because of those years with him and the Pritchett family. I can only hope to leave a fraction of the legacy he has left. My prayers remain with the family and community that lost so much with his passing. Thank you all for the positive impact on my life.

Steve Crowe

Coworker

August 22, 2020

I live in So. Georgia and while traveling yesterday I saw a Pritchett truck pass me and I was reminded of the tragedy in Lake Butler. God Bless the families effected by this

Ann Canaday

September 12, 2013

All we can ask in this life is for the opportunity to have an impact on the lives of others. Mr. Pritchett certainly seized the many opportunities he had. His impact on me was felt simply by observing the way he treated others. I am a better man because I had the privilege of knowing him.

Mark Bracewell

September 10, 2013

Marvin Pritchett was a pillar of the community, almost everyone in the community was impacted by him in one way or the other. He will be missed. He was a great man and I am proud to have known him.

Charles Rahn

September 5, 2013

Much gratitude for what you've done for my children Tyler, Tristyn, Tori, Taylor and Travis during their school years in Union County.

Teresa Irwin

September 2, 2013

May you rest in peace my thoughts and prayers are with your family at there loss God Bless You

Anna Green

September 1, 2013

I was deeply saddened to learn of Mr Pritchetts passing. He was a fine man and i appreciate all the opportunities he gave me. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Thank you Mr Pritchett.

Darryl Richardson

August 31, 2013

May God give you peace.

Catherine & Henry Filer

August 31, 2013

May you feel comfort in the coming days ahead

May you feel solace when your heart is full of dread

May you feel strength when the sunlight falls upon your head

May you feel your loved one in your heart, as you drift off lying in your bed

Tammy

August 30, 2013

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Pritchett. From what I've read he was a wonderful asset to the town of Lake Butler and was clearly loved by his community, friends and family. I did not know him personally but I still find myself saddened by the unnecessary passing of this man... I just wanted you to know that even though I did not know him, I am incredibly sorry for your loss.

Tammy

August 30, 2013

My heart aches for the Pritchett Family. I had the pleasure of knowing Mr. P over the last 8 years. He was a kind, generous and giving man. I will miss seeing him everyday tending to his cows. Rest in peace, you will never be forgotten.

Christa Myers

August 30, 2013

OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE ENTIRE PRITCHETT FAMILY. MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU IN THIS TIME OF SORROW.

CYNTHIA WATKINS-TAYLOR

August 30, 2013

Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Pritchett. His legacy will be with the Union County community forever. RIP Mr.P

August 30, 2013

Mr. Pridgett was a great man and a gentleman, he was very giving to FCCD and to the entire community. He will be missed. RIP

Linda Gillingham

August 30, 2013

We are so sorry for your loss. May God give you comfort at this time.
The Word Family

August 30, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with the Pritchett in this difficult time . I have a lot of memory's from lake butler and Pritchett trucking and thankful that they hired a log truck driver and gave me a chance to have a great Carear in trucking R.I.P. Mr. Marvin you was a good man that did so much for others and for me DOGMAN

James Houston

August 30, 2013

A giant and majestic redwood has fallen. May the memory of his noble life be an everlasting inspiration to all of us who remain.
The bright light of Marvin Pritchett 's spirit shines in the hearts of his beautiful family and in the memory of all who knew him. Rest In Peace.

Salvatore Annino & Peter Dennis Annino / Dennis

August 30, 2013

My parents were friends of Marvin and Margaret when they lived in Lake Butler years ago. My condolences on your loss.

Annamarie Guerrero Harvey

August 30, 2013

Mr. Pritchett has done so much for our community. My sons played football for Union County several years ago and Mr. Pritchett done so much for the team and school. If not for his generosity, many less fortunate students would not have been able to participate in sports, band, FFA, etc.... He will always be remembered and dearly missed. Thank you for all you have for Union County. You will be dearly missed. Our prayers go out to the families involved and to the Union County community. God Bless and Keep You!

August 30, 2013

Thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Employees at Southern Fuelwood in Newberry

Pat Post

August 30, 2013

I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH MARVIN BACK IN 1947 WAS ON THE FOOT BALL TEAM WITH HIM HAVE NOT SEEN HIM SINCE 1954 WHILE GOING TO A MILITARY SCHOOL IN FT JACKSON S.C.MARVIN WAS WELL LIKED AND KNOW HE WILL BE MISSED SORRY I WONT BE ABLE TO ATTEND HIS CELIBRATION OF LIFE BUT I LIVE IN UTAH AND UNABLE TO ATTEND MARVIN REST IN PEACE

DOWNING EARL (CURLY)

August 30, 2013

Dawn Mallard

August 29, 2013

May God (john 17:3) bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Davis

August 29, 2013

I met Marvin, years ago when my husband started towing Pritchett trucks that broke down or when they were involved in accidents, Marvin was a gentle soul who was loved by everyone that came into his path. Thoughts and prayers are with Marvin's family and friends.

Cindy, Scott Hedgcoth

August 29, 2013

I pray God's blessings and comfort for this family.

August 29, 2013

Emily and Family, our prayers are truly with you in the tragic loss of Mr. Pritchett. What a beautiful legacy Mr. Pritchett has left for generations to come! May God's love and your fond memories of a man who touched so many comfort you through this difficult time.

John Henry and Connie Smith

August 29, 2013

I might have not known the Pritchett family but I have nothing but excellent things about Mr.Pritchett.I know of him because of the French`s and Howard's. Just hearing the thing's I heard that he has done for the small town makes my heart hurt because now he is gone but never will be forgotten. I'm so sorry his family friend's and employees have to go on without him. I wanna BLESS each and everyone of y'all who him. May GOD be with y'all thru hard rough and saddened time.

Constance Stinson

August 29, 2013

Dear Robin, Jon, and Family:
All our strength comes from God. I pray that He will heal your hearts and help you through this. My prayers are with you...Love, Paula Dobbs Traylor

August 29, 2013

We are shocked and so so sad for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Munden Dixon family
Savannah, GA

August 29, 2013

Jon and family,
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thought and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Dana, Bob, Christina McGowan

August 29, 2013

Dear Margaret, Robin, John, Phillip and family,
I pray our God give you strength in your hearts and minds at all times now and in days to come. God Bless.
All my heart and prayers,
Janie Andrews (Aunt Radie Sue's daughter)

Janie Andrews

August 29, 2013

Dear Margaret, Robin, John, Phillip and family,
I pray our God give you strength in your hearts and minds at all times now and in days to come. God Bless.
All my heart and prayers,
Janie Andrews (Aunt Radie Sue's daughter)

Janie Andrews

August 29, 2013

My heartfelt thoughts are with the Pritchett family.

Sherron Lee Carroll

August 29, 2013

"As you comprehend this profound" (and senseless) "loss, let yourself cry knowing each tear is a note of love rising to the heavens". (author unknown)
My sister and I are extremely sad to hear of Mr. Pritchett's death - such an unthinkable loss.
Kathy Becker and Becky (Becker) Cole
daughters of Ralph & Betty Becker

Kathy Becker

August 29, 2013

The truly great never have to point out their greatness to others. I have met many people in my lifetime, but none that were so simultaneously great AND humble. The sadness over the manner in which Mr. P entered eternity is, in my mind, overshadowed by the way in which he lived his life. Even if he and I were standing in a doorway talking about the weather, I always knew that he loved his Family, his employees, his community and his God. God Bless Margaret, Robin, Jon and Phillip. You are much in our prayers and thoughts.

Dan and Mary Ann Williams

August 29, 2013

Praying for your family. God Bless you all

Randy & Rhonda Maddox

August 29, 2013

My condolences to the Pritchett family.
Jamie Tollison, Beard Equipment Co.

August 29, 2013

My deepest sympathy to your family.
Donnie Vanzant, Beard Equipment Co.

August 29, 2013

ROBIN , JON , PHILIP, MARGARET NO WORDS CAN EXPRESS TO YOU OF MY ADMIRATION FOR MARVIN PRITCHETT . A MAN THAT WAS ALWAYS SO HUMBLE ALL THE TIME AND CARED FOR SO MANY . MAY THE LORD PROTECT AND HEALED THIS FAMILY

LEN SCHLOFMAN

August 29, 2013

Our deepest condolences to the Pritchett family. May God bless you in this time of sorrow.
The Beard Equipment Company

August 29, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the Pritchett family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Stuart Smith, Beard Equipment Company

August 29, 2013

I am very sad and my heart is crying to hear of the way Mr. Pritchett was taken from his loving family. HE HAD MANY MANY MORE YEARS OF LIFE . I met Marvin in 1977 Through Mr. Gary Roberts and he and his family have been friends since.
He gave me advice for life and I still live by the same values . His word just stuck in my head , Thank you Mr. Pritchett for helping me live my life in directions that has made me the person I am , a hard working man and a loving father . God Bless you and may you rest in peace . May God open his arms , lift you up and carry you through the gates of Heaven . May he comfort your family and always keep the memories of you fresh in their mind , I know I will . You will be missed but never forgotten . I love you and I will see you again . Love George Shipley

Lynn Shipley

August 29, 2013

Sympathy to the Pritchett family and the other families effected by this terrible tragedy.Never met Mr. Pritchett, but have been to Lake Butler many times as my son (Buddy Nobles) coached football there. Buddy always talked highly of Mr. Pritchard. God Bless.

Ann and Leon Canaday

August 29, 2013

Jon, Robin, Phillip and Mrs Pritchett. I am thinking of all of you. Mr. Pritchett had a large impact on my life. For that I will never forget him or any of you. i will keep you all in my heart and prayers. Thans for all you have done for me.

Steve Crowe (Columbia, SC)

Steve Crowe

August 28, 2013

God show the Families the Love & give them strength to carry on with the community pulling together in this time of need Bless each one as they endure the coming days in Jesus name just Believe ANGELS are entering the Gates of Heaven ~

Joy Gray

August 28, 2013

Emily and Family,
Frank and I are so saddened with the loss of your Father in Law. May your wonderful memories linger and be cherished forever. Praying for comforting healing days ahead. God Bless, Daphna and Frank

Daphna and Frank Ariel - Kowalczyk

August 28, 2013

Rest Eternal Grant Him OLord, Ahmen.

Don Wimberly, designer

August 28, 2013

Sending prayers to the entire Pritchett family, today and always.

Martha Gayle Wallace

August 28, 2013

Although Marvin and I were first cousins, we only became acquainted 20 years ago and I found him to be a beautiful man that built a beautiful family of which he was so very PROUD. We enjoyed catching up. Many will mourn the loss of this wonderful man. I know God was standing ready with his arms wide open to receive him. May God help Margaret and his entire family through this terrible tragedy. Nelta C. Jones

Nelta C. Jones

August 28, 2013

Though I did not know him really well, I remember Marvin as a quiet gentle person who's words were spoken after careful consideration, and choosing proper time and place to say them. He was also an attentive listener. It is easy then to understand how his life goals seemed to be met at such an astonishing rate. In all this he also loved and enjoyed his family and all the people around him. I am greatly saddened by the method of his going. But I do anticipate seeing him again in the presence of God.

Richard Johns

August 28, 2013

I first met Mr. Pritchett 5 1/2 years ago in orienatation. Over the last several years, I always looked forward to going down to Lake Butler on Saturdays every chance I got, either it was to go get my truck worked on or pick up a trailer. For I knew Mr. P. would come by and we would stand outside and talk about the old trucks and things like B model Macks etc. He always treated me not just like a employee but an Ok friend. He will be very missed, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and other employees.
As for David we had become good friends. He had helped me and others out several times. I could call him on my radio & tell him what my truck was doing & he would tell me how to fix it or what to do.
David & Mr. P will be greatly missed God bless each and everyone of you at the Pritchett and the Griffis Family.

From George & Old Bertha Truck # 1241 Tallahassee, Fl

George Merkison

August 28, 2013

Our prayers are with each of you.Marvin was a wonderful and giving man. Sorry I can not be there for Margart,But know that my love and prayers are there for you and I will see you the end of Sept.--Oct.15th

Faye Wilkins

August 28, 2013

i have worked with mr. p for 30 years off and on he has been a father to me more than my own father i just can't believe this could happen to mrs. margret robin jon and phillip you have my deepest sympathy when we lost our son mr. p was right there for me i really cared for him our prayers go out to the pritchett family

walter and cheryl avinger

August 28, 2013

May God bless each of you and comfort you during this tragic time. My prayers are with you.

Cindy Noegel

August 28, 2013

May the peace of the Lord be with you. Our thoughts and prayers are with Loren and her family.

Pam Measel

August 28, 2013

Prayers to the Pritchett family...Mr. Pritchett was a wonderful man and I am sure Heaven has a new angel. God Bless

Angela Turner

August 28, 2013

Sending our sencere sympathies to all the people affected.
From your friends at Gerdau - Jacksonville Steel Mill

August 28, 2013

Words cannot express the hurt of our broken hearts for you all. Mr. Pritchett was a gracious friend that I was honored to work with years ago. His heart and vision was awesome as he worked to achieve all of his hopes and dreams. May God's comfort be with his family and friends as you mourn your loss. (Matt. 5:4) Do not rush your
grief and cherish your many many memories. He will be greatly missed.

Billy DeVore

August 28, 2013

ROBIN AND PRESTON, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. May God grant you peace during this difficult time in your life's.
The Taylors
Robert(Scott)and Mary

August 28, 2013

Dear Margaret, Jon, Robin and Phillip,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. Marvin was truly an exceptional person and will be missed by all. My deepest sympathy to you and your families.

Jay Portnoy

August 28, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Paul & Karen Cossey

August 28, 2013

May you find comfort in the knowledge that you are loved by many. Our hearts break for this tragedy. Marvin was so generous to my sons and their teams, and the goodwill that he spread throughout his life, will be forever remembered. May this soldier rest in peace.

Susan (Pruitt) Carrignan

August 28, 2013

What a senseless tragedy that took this dear man's life. My prayers go out to your whole family. May God bless and give you strength today and in all the days ahead.

Teresa Wade

August 28, 2013

Our prayers are with your family. May Heavenly Father continue to comfort and to support you in the coming days.

Alice & Ray Rudd

August 28, 2013

Heartfelt condolences are offered to your family during this great time of sorrow. May it comfort you to know that God is greater than our hearts and he knows how to provide needed strength and comfort when we need it most. (1 John 3:20)

August 28, 2013

i had the privaledge of working for mr pritchett and getting to meet him he was great man it deeply saddens my heart to learn of this tragedy may god wrap his family in his arms and comfort them through this sad time

john cloer

August 28, 2013

WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE PRITCHETT FAMILY LOOK UNTO THE HILLS FOR WHICH COMETH YOUR HELP. YOOUR HELP COOMETH FROM THE LORD WHO MADE THE HEAVEN AND EARTH.

EVELYN COLLINS LOPEZ

August 28, 2013

Mrs. Pritchett and family:
We are so sorry to learn of your loss. May God grant you the peace and tranquility to get through this difficult time in your life.
You have our deepest sympathy,
Claude, Evelyn, Brenda, Paul and Timmy

Evelyn Snyder

August 28, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Mr. Pritchett was a good man, honest and showed integrity. He had the ability to relate to all people at all levels of intellect and economic situations. He was a man that will leave a legacy in the small community of Union County, the State of Florida and outstretching to all over the US via people he came in contact with throughout his life. God Bless.

Wayne and Julie Johns

August 28, 2013

Prayers and condolences to your family. May your many happy memories bring you peace in the future.

Gary, Beth, Josh, Zac and Nic Blunk

August 28, 2013

What a GREAT man! GOD is surely celebrating his arrival!

August 28, 2013

To the family of Marvin H. Pritchett:

I learned with much sorrow of the passing of this wonderful leader in your community and wish to convey my sincere condolences on the loss of presence. I'm sure he leaves behind many grieving family and friends but also know his sense of community, love and giving will be forever remembered and revered.

The contributions he made during his illustrious career is a testament to his open and sharing spirit and most assuredly he has already been rewarded for a life 'well-lived' for eternity.

I pray for your strength and healing in the coming times and hope the legacy he left each and every one of his loved ones and community will be most appreciated and respected.

God bless each and every one of you.

Dell Anne Hines Afzal

August 28, 2013

Praying for your family. God bless you all.

Rhoda Norton

August 28, 2013

Prayers to the family. Stay strong in the Lord and knows that He is God. God's blessings to you and yours.

Annette Redman

August 27, 2013

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