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Jake Pritchard Obituary
June 6, 2004 - June 12, 2025
Matthews, North Carolina - Jake Michael Pritchard, beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, passed away on June 12, 2025, just six days after his 21st birthday. Born on June 6, 2004, Jake lived a life defined not by limits, but by laughter, courage, and love.
Diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at three years old, Jake faced the many challenges of his condition with grace and quiet strength. When he lost the ability to walk at 14, he reassured those around him, saying it was OK, he could still do everything he wanted to in a power wheelchair.
With a bright mind, sharp wit, and deep compassion for others, Jake embraced life fully. He attended Antioch Elementary and graduated from Weddington High School in 2023. Jake loved music, concerts, gaming, comedy shows, and spending time with friends and family. He especially cherished his time at MDA summer camps, where he formed lasting friendships and found a true sense of belonging.
Jake had a spirited nature, at times a little rascal, especially when he was younger, even earning a "funniest friend" award in school. He approached everything with determination and a touch of perfectionism, always wanting to get it just right whether building Legos or recalling unique details and dates that often escaped the rest of us. His unforgettable laugh and infectious smile left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Jake is lovingly remembered by his parents, Michael and Emily Pritchard; his brother, Benjamin Pritchard; his grandparents, Bill and Pat King; his uncles and aunts, Stacy and Lindy Pritchard, and Will and Krissy King; and his cousins, Liam, Liev, and Sullivan Pritchard, and Ella King.
A celebration of Jake's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Weddington United Methodist Church, 13901 Providence Road, Weddington, NC 28104. The family will receive friends at a reception following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (www.parentprojectmd.org) or Friends Foundation of the Carolinas (www.friends-foundation.org).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jake Pritchard
Sponsored by The Charlotte Observer.
Carole Y Williams
June 25, 2025
It is never easy to lose someone you love, and the love for Jake is evident in his obituary. Only someone who is wholeheartedly loved can live life with gusto and bring joy to those they encounter. This reflects the love and support each of you poured into him.
May his memories bring you peace and comfort until you see him again.
Warmest regards,
Carole Y. Williams
Uncle Johnny and Aunt Sammie
June 23, 2025
We are all thinking of your family in this time.
Sending Condolences
June 23, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Kelly Clark
June 23, 2025
So sorry to see the loss of Jake. He was a delightful human being. I always enjoyed seeing him. He did have a great sense of humor and was very determined. He will be missed. Nurse Clark, WMS
The Hathaway family
June 22, 2025
Our hearts are broken about the loss of sweet Jake. Our families did not see each other often, but we had a very special bond that only a few understood. I pray the Pritchard´s find some comfort knowing Jake is healed completely and running the streets of gold in Heaven.
Angel C Davis
June 21, 2025
I didn't know Jake but judging by his picture and the words written about I wish I had. His smile and rosy cheeks touched my heart. I will definitely be saying a prayer for Jake, his family, and friends! God bless and may he be at peace!!
Andrea Bonda
June 20, 2025
My sincere condolences. Jake was a special man who touched so many people with his extraordinary courage and heart. It was my privilege to have been his aide and friend and he will always remain in my heart forever. God has healed Jake and is now an angel running and jumping and doing all the things he was meant to do without pain or anxiety. I will always love you Jake. Thank you for being a part of my life.
Lauren Brawley
June 20, 2025
Beautifully written for such Ana amazing young man. Sending all of our love and prayers to your family, now and always.
Lisa Leake
June 20, 2025
What a beautifully written obituary about a wonderful young man who faced unimaginable challenges. We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of your precious son Jake and will absolutely be with you on Wednesday to help celebrate his life.
Celinda Trull
June 20, 2025
A very touching message about Jake´s life and how he lived with such spirit. I´m so very sorry for your family´s tremendous loss. God Bless.
Christine McCall
June 20, 2025
Michael, I am so sorry to hear of Jakes passing. I have watched your pictures float by my feed every so often and from what I can see, He had a fulfilled life. Prayers for you and Emily.
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