Clyde Collins Pruitt

Clyde Collins Pruitt, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and inspiration to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at The Laurels of Hendersonville. He was born on November 6, 1933, in Henderson County, North Carolina, and lived a remarkable life of 92 years.

Clyde was a native of Henderson County where he owned and operated of Clyde Pruitt's Landscaping Services for over 50 years where his dedication and hard work left a lasting legacy throughout his community. A true son of the soil, he nurtured not just gardens and landscapes, but also the lives of those around him with his wisdom and kindness. He became a true mentor for many of his nephews, family members, and neighborhood boys in Big Willow, whom he employed.

Clyde loved Gospel music and had a passion for the outdoors. He took great pride in his work and was a man who always had a smile and a good attitude towards life.

A devoted member of Jones Gap Baptist Church, Clyde's faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through triumphs and challenges alike. In service to his country during the Korean War, he was a veteran of the United States Army, where he earned commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal. He was an artilleryman and truck driver delivering supplies to the DMZ. His service is remembered with honor and gratitude. Clyde also previously served with the Etowah Fire Department.

Clyde is preceded in death by his parents, Carl William Pruitt and Dora Anna Collins Pruitt; his daughter, Denise Pruitt Skaggs Smith; his sisters, Edna Pruitt Cox Allison, Clara Mae Pruitt Hill, Lillie Ann Pruitt Gray, and Geneva Pruitt Blackwell; and his brothers, Carl Eugene Pruitt and Charles William Pruitt.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 72 years, Janie Elizabeth Cole Pruitt, who stood by his side through all of life's seasons. His legacy continues through his daughters, Dolores Lemmons (Jeffrey Scott Lemmons) and Delinda Dorothy Pressley (Lee Pressley, Sr.); his grandchildren, Christopher Skaggs (Jenifer), Nathan Smith, Wesley Allen Barnett (Michelle), Justin Keith Garren (Natasha), and Kevin Hayes Garren (Ashley); as well as his cherished great-grandchildren, Lyndi-Kay Smith, Payton Garren, Paxton Garren, and Brinley Garren. Clyde also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

The family will receive friends at Shuler Funeral Home from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, Wednesday, January 7, 2025. A graveside service, honoring his life and legacy, will follow at 3:00 PM at Shepherd Memorial Park with Reverend Curtis Pace officiating, and Military Honors rendered in a tribute to his service to our country.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Jones Gap Baptist Church, PO Box 671, Hendersonville, NC 28793. Clyde's enduring spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless love have left indelible marks on the lives he touched. His life reminds us that true success is not measured by what we gather, but by what we give. He gave endlessly, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.