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Richard Prunty Obituary
Richard Prunty's world revolved around two families. There was his family in Sayville, on Long Island, and there was the Second Battalion of the New York City Fire Department.
Mr. Prunty, the battalion chief, would explain to his wife, Susan, that his life depended on his firefighters. They depended on him, too. When he received promotions, his firefighters did not want him to move on. "It truly was a brotherhood," she said.
Mr. Prunty was heading into 1 World Trade Center with his firefighters, but his wife thinks he probably had tried to call them out because he was so conscious of their safety. At 57, he was a tall, unassuming man, never the type to dominate a conversation or even brag. But when he did have something to say, his soft-spoken words were usually the strongest and most effective that could be said.
Despite his sometimes gruff exterior, his family knew he was a teddy bear. He was protective of his two children, Lisa, 25, and Christopher, 21. His daughter recalls her father's visit when she became so ill at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire that she couldn't finish classes during final exams. He stayed for one week, sleeping on the floor. "I almost didn't graduate and that put me through it," she said.
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S.J. Friscia III
January 5, 2020
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
November 30, 2019
RIP....
Cammarata family
September 10, 2016
The ultimate sacrifice you've endured has touched so many hearts. Our prayers are always with you and your family not only on the sacred day of Sept 11th but everyday. Our deepest remembrances of times past from the Cammarata family.
Rich at my house with Chris and our pony.
Jerry Kirk
September 11, 2015
Rich was a smart and quiet guy and a great Dad. Loved the FDNY. We met through my ex-wife who was good friends with Rich's wife. We'd go to dinner or bowling in the 70s and 80s, but sadly lost touch in the 90s. Rip Rich. He was a terrific guy.
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Richard Hales
February 1, 2014
I visited NY over Christmas and we were having such a great time.We went to Ground zero. It was a very humbling visit knowing what had happened there. I recorded Richard A Prunty's name and have read online about this true hero.His memory will never be forgotten.
Richard Hales,London,England
Jesse Prunty
May 18, 2013
I know what it is like to lose a love one who is a hero. My brother, Tim, was shot and killed in the line of duty saving a young lady's life. He was a sergeant on the Shreveport Police Dept. God bless you all and all the firemen and policemen who risk their lives everyday for us.
maye vasquez
September 28, 2012
you were a true HERO!! never forgotten. R.I.P.
Justin
May 2, 2012
Hi. Through this guest book I have found that Chief Prunty was a great man. He gave his life for this wonderful country and that can never be forgotten. Even though it has been ten years I know that the wounds from that horrible day are still fresh. I feel so sorry for your loss. I am researching him because I can as a project in order to go to the memorial site in New York with my school. I would love to get in contact with you so that I can learn more about him, his life, and his legacy. I wish to learn more not only so that I am allowed to go but so that I can memorialize Battalion Chief Richard Prunty
Luca Mattei
April 12, 2012
Just reading a book telling about you.
God bless you and your family
Brenda Serrano
September 11, 2011
Here a Puertorrican family with respect, praying for you and your family. Rest in peace. Daniel, Arnaldo and Brenda from Kissimmee Fl. We pick a flag with this name at Orlando activity today. God bless your family and have your soul with him
September 11, 2011
I did not have the honor of knowing Richard Prunty. My maiden name is Prunty. So I feel like I also lost a family member. What is in a name we all are brothers and sisters in this world. God bless you
Martha Prunty Lum
whs
September 11, 2011
Thank you for your sacrifice...god bless you.
May 2, 2011
My name is John Prunty. I live in St. Louis, MO. Because we share the same last name, I know that we both originate from Ireland and are relatives. I regret that I never met my "cousin." On this day that they announced the killing of Osama Bin Laden, I reach out to the family of Richard Prunty with a prayer and heartfelt thanks to him for his ultimate sacrifice.
God bless you!
John J. Prunty
DOB 10-02-47
February 2, 2011
richard you are very missed by your family and friends. never forgotten.
9-11 Seat - Honors all Fallen Hero's
February 18, 2010
Is dedicated to Honor Richard Prunty - Built and Frabricated by Jamie and Tim Prunty - as a way to honor one of the clan !
October 7, 2009
God Bless America - May we NEVER forget !
October 7, 2009
9-11 Tribute Bike - American Pride !
October 7, 2009
9-11 Tribute Bike to Honor All that gave their life that day .. RIP !
October 7, 2009
9-11 Tribute Bike - Outside Engine 10, NYC
October 7, 2009
Ashley Roberson
September 11, 2009
Today my school handed out paper hearts with firefighters names on them who lost their lives in the attack. I got your name on mine. May you rest in peace and always be remembered. You were brave.
Rich and Family
September 11, 2009
On this day, may God's blessings and comfort be with you and your family today and always.
September 12, 2008
May God's amazing grace, peace, love, and eternal comfort, be with you and your family always. With respect and honor, I remember you today! God bless!
kristine
April 23, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
February 5, 2007
In memory....
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
October 27, 2006
Very sorry about your loss! Sincere sympathy, Pat - R.N. in TN
Jerry Kirk
September 12, 2006
I have only just found out that Richie died on that most horrible of days. I had not been in touch with Richie or Susan in about 25 years, but still remember the
claire prunty
July 31, 2006
the name prunty caught my attention. its very sad so many lives had to lost but i'm sure Mr Prunty's family and colleagues are very proud of him.
may he rest in peace
claire prunty
July 31, 2006
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Luann Prunty - Dixon
February 8, 2006
Just a very very distant relative sending you condolances. There are really too few of us to be taken away like that.
Joan Thomas
May 21, 2004
Susan and Family,
I hope you are doing well. I worked with you at Cherokee School in the 80's. We spoke about our husbands then, both being firefighters. I am so sorry about the loss of Richard. I think about all of the brave firefighters and policemen that lost their lives on Sept. 11th quite often. I will never forget them. May God keep you and your family in his care.
Chuck Porter
September 11, 2003
As a one time Vol. fireman, a bit of me went with you...
Ray McCarthy
July 5, 2003
One of the many, I have been proud to know and work with.
Ray McCarthy
L 30 (ret)
Meghan O'Brien
November 21, 2002
I am writing to extend my sorrow to the Prunty family and let them know my prayers, along w/ so many others, are still with them. I am a firefighter and a dispatcher and sat at my console on the morning of Sept. 11th watching what unfolded in horror, feeling completely helpless. I have received your husband/father/friend's name on my 9*11 bracelet and plan to wear it every day to remind everyone of the loss of so many loved ones that day, a day I'm sure never to forget. God bless my fellow firefighters that passed and the ones that go on protecting. And a special prayer everyday for the Prunty family, a family i have never met but will hold close to my heart.
FF Meghan O'Brien, BTFD
Gerald Robertson
October 7, 2002
On 9/11,2002, my son, wife and myself sang in the Rolling Requiem. We sang from the state capitol in Harrisburg, arguably, the most beautiful of all state capitals. I had Richard Prunty's name on my chest. It was an honor to sing in his memory.
Robert W. Prunty
September 15, 2002
Heard the name Chief Prunty on the CNN Special of 9/11 and wish to send our prayers and condolences to the family and friends. My Prunty heritage is from Wamego, Kansas. God Bless - Robert & Kay, Deena, Lisa, and Jason.
Roland Coleman
September 13, 2002
In our memorial service on 9-11, I was honored to call out Chief Prunty's name. My prayers go out to his family and fellow firefighters.
Amy Sultzbaugh
September 12, 2002
I found the memorial for Chief Prunty while doing genealogy research. My grandfather was Wade Hampton Prunty of Missouri. During yesterday's reading of the names on TV I watched for his name but we did not hear the P's in this area. My sister called me this evening to tell me she had heard several comments about Chief Richard Prunty on the channel she had watched. As probable distant relatives, all the Pruntys in Missouri would like to send our sincere condolences for the loss of such a very good man.
Martin Slade
September 11, 2002
Having read Chief Picciotto's book 'last man down' and reading references to Chief Prunty, I'd like to say how sad I am to read that he survived the initial fall, only to pass away in the hours that followed. A true hero, and heroes NEVER die in our hearts.
John Rudge
July 16, 2002
Only wish I could've known you as a brother fireman to add to the memories of you when I was a child. (I grew up on Avenue C in Lake Ronkonkoma)I didn't know Rich was on the job till I saw his picture in the list. I know he would've been proud to know I was also on the job.(almost 15 yrs now)
God Bless Susan Lisa and Christopher
John Rudge
([email protected]
Angie Campbell
May 9, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
michael Iezzi
April 29, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Richard to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
bridgette robinson
March 31, 2002
i just wanted to say god bless richard prunty and all of his family
i didn't get my bracelet yet my husband bought it for me with a few others for our family he is working at the trade center still..i miss him while he is gone...but i know he will be home soon. thank god..bless you richard u gave your life for alot of others and may god be with your family and help them trew this as well as with all families...god bless
March 26, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL GENTLEMAN...AND HERO..RICHARD PRUNTY AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING WIFE AND CHILDREN..FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE..PRAY..AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK FOREVER..MAY GOD AND HIS ANGELS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Tiffanie Allen
March 18, 2002
The Prunty Family,
This is the hardest thing i've had to write. my mom has a pow (prisoner of war)bracelet like the one i ordered to honor you loved one. I have a five year old daughter who is my life and since the events on 9-11 I realize everyday that she is a miracle and treasure every moment with her. I am so proud to be from a country that have heros like your loved one and I feel safer that people do care about people. god bless you and your family I think about New York everyday, you all are very strong. I will treasure my bracelet forever and I will pass it down to my daughter.
Sandi Prunty-Young
March 11, 2002
Prunty Family,
My heart goes out to you, I am so sorry for your loss. I want thank your husband/father for his bravery as well as all of the other firefighters that were present on 9/11. I know your proud and hope that you can feel some comfort knowing that he gave his life willingly and for our country. God Bless you all. You will forever remain in my heart and prayers.
Sandi Prunty-Young
Debra Billotto
March 11, 2002
To the Prunty Family,
My daughter goes to the Elementary school where Mrs. Prunty worked as the school nurse before September 11th..
We will never forget Mr. Prunty. We pray for you and your family.
Mrs. Prunty all of us here at school miss you and hope that you are OK. We care about you just as you cared for our children.
God Bless you and your family.
Thank you Mrs. Prunty for being a wonderful school nurse. And thank you Mr. Prunty for being who you were and for being so brave trying to help.
Forever in my heart.
Debra
Deborah Haines
February 25, 2002
Gone, but never forgotten. God bless our firemen and families. I am honored to wear his name on my bracelet
Dr. Cindy Lung-Nelson
February 14, 2002
I received BC Richard Pruty's mercy band. My brother is a firefighter, and I know the bravery that is inherent in their job. We all thank The Pruty Family, and pray for their strenght in this horrible loss. Thank you to Richard for being there and for his dedication. I will wear his bracelet with the honor to him that I'm sure he deserves.
Barbara Buckheit Murray
January 28, 2002
My family and I are very sorry to hear of the loss of such a fine person and battalion chief. My family knows the Prunty family for many years and know that Richard won't be forgotten. My prayers go to Susan and Lisa and Christopher.
Teresa Jahn
December 16, 2001
We thank Richard for dedicating his life to helping others. Such dedication comes with an enormous heart. We thank Richard for sharing his heart with others. May his life and love live on in his children. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Richard. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Brian Becker
November 20, 2001
I saw Chief Prunty once in a while in our work in the 1st division.I didn't work with but saw him at a few FD incidents. He seemed like a great guy. He was just the kind of BC I liked...confident, knowledgable but still just a regular guy . I'm very sorry for his loss.
Nate Ranney
October 17, 2001
God Bless Richard and all his brother firefighters. His bravery and unselfishness are a tribute to all his surviving family and friends. Thank you and may God keep you strong in your tremendous loss.
Susan Prunty
September 25, 2001
Reviewing the victims of the WTC, I came across Richard's name. My family name is also Prunty and though we may not be related, I wanted to send my deepest sympathies to your family from another Prunty family (Roger, Betty, Steve, Stephanie, Robin, Jackie and Susan). Our thoughts are with you and may God Bless you.
McKenna Cole
September 19, 2001
Americans will never forget your sacrifice, for no greater love exists than the one that leads a man to lay down his life for others. America is a better place because of your unselfish dedication to fellow citizens. You embody the true spirit of America and love. May you rest in peace. And may God's divine comfort pave a path of hope and promise for the future for your loved ones.
Veronica Ayres
September 19, 2001
My heart goes out to the family and frinds. May you know his passing was not in vain, but acting unselfishly, to save others. For this reason he will always be remembered as a Hero to this great country we live in. God Bless!!!
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