Bill Pratt

William (Bill) James Pratt passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on November 11, 1947, to Cleo and Roscoe Pratt in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, Bill held a deep affection for his hometown. He often reminisced about his childhood and school days, cherishing the lifelong friendships he formed along the way. A natural storyteller, Bill had a tale for every occasion - sometimes even sharing the same story two or three times, just to make sure no one missed the good parts.
Above all, Bill was a devoted father. His children were his greatest joy, and he made it his mission to be there for them in every way possible. Whether cheering them on at sporting events, celebrating their graduations, or coming to the rescue with a gallon of gas, a quick car repair, or fixing a flat, he was always just a phone call away. Countless weekends were spent at Arbuckle Lake, filled with camping and water skiing, creating many cherished memories that we will hold dear forever.
Bill's kindness extended far beyond his family. He had a way of making time for everyone - not just his children, but his children's friends, his own friends, and even strangers who simply needed a listening ear. He was patient, generous, and genuinely cared about others, qualities that were embodied by his children, and are now carried through to his grandchildren, nieces and nephews and his loving family.
After an unforgettable experience as an exchange student in Australia, Bill returned home with a broadened perspective and a thirst for knowledge. He enrolled at the University of Oklahoma, where he pursued a degree in English, driven by a deep love for language and a desire to make a difference through law. Just before completing his education, a golden opportunity in construction arose, soon becoming a field that would define much of his career across the state. His craftsmanship was evident throughout Pauls Valley, from his work on the First Baptist Church to his contributions as Public Works Director, a role he took on in 2001. Under his leadership as a public servant, he oversaw vital projects, including the construction of the city's police station and improvements to local streets. Additionally, his expertise in water treatment plants made him an invaluable resource to the city of Pauls Valley, and after 21 years of service, he retired, having left a lasting mark on his beloved town.
Outside of work, Bill found joy in life's simple pleasures. He had a deep appreciation for nature and spent countless hours tending to his garden, taking pride in every hot pepper and home-grown tomato that flourished under his care. Music was another profound pursuit that brought him happiness - whether strumming his guitar with friends on a quiet evening or picking out a familiar tune just for fun, music was always a part of his world.
Bill was also a die-hard OU football fan who rarely missed a game. Saturdays in the fall were important and spent by cheering on the Sooners with family and friends, celebrating victories, and standing by his Sooners season after season. He brought people together, whether through shared laughter, a heartfelt conversation, a family meal or a simple act of kindness.
Above all, Bill's greatest joy came from the people in his life. His warmth, humor, and unwavering support for those he loved will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.
Preceded in death by his three amazing children, Allison, Holly, and Ryan whom he adored, his beloved dog Sissy, parents Roscoe and Cleo Pratt, brother-in-law Jim Jarman, father-in-law Ray Ward and nephew Tyler Ward. Bill is lovingly survived by his wife of 33 years, Lisa Pratt, daughter-in-law Monica Pratt, grandsons Garret and Spencer Pratt, son Nic Field, sister Janis Jarman, brother John Pratt and wife Freta, brother Bob Pratt and wife Susan, mother-in-law Reba Jo Ward, sister-in-law Nikki Assad and husband David, brother-in-law Jay Ward and wife Tammy, and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of his life will be held Friday, February 28, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church of Pauls Valley officiated by Rev. Elaine Howsley. Services for cremation are under the direction of the Stufflebean-Coffey Funeral Home. We invite you to send words of comfort to the family at www.stufflebeanfuneralhome.com.
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