Gary Pruett

Gary Lynn Pruett, age 80, passed away on March 5, 2026. He was born on February 25, 1946, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Gary spent his early childhood in Biggers, Arkansas, before moving to Flat River, Missouri, where he was raised.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States military, serving in Korea during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he devoted his career to education. Gary spent 30 years as a mathematics teacher in the Leadwood, Athena, and Fox School Districts. Throughout his years in the classroom, he made a lasting impact on many students, sharing his knowledge and encouraging them to succeed.

Gary shared 46 years of marriage with his first wife, Wanda Louise (Caby) Pruett. Together, they built a loving home and family until her passing in 2019. Later in life, Gary married Mary Dreyer Pruett, who survives him and shared in his later years with love and companionship.

Faith was central to Gary’s life. He faithfully served the Lord and his church throughout the years at Flat River Church of Christ in Park Hills, Missouri, and earlier in life at Fairview Christian Church in Festus, Missouri. He became an ordained minister after he retired from teaching, serving as a preacher at Community Christian Church in Farmington, MO.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Mary Dreyer Pruett; his sons, Ryan (Julie) Pruett and Nathan (Charlene) Pruett; and his cherished grandchildren, Nick, Alex, Rylie, Brock, and Jaxon.

He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Caren and Bill Black; his brother-in-law, Brad Caby; and special extended family members Kimberly Aubuchon and her husband, Mark, and Jennifer (Josh) Stokes, along with Michaelyn, Reese, and Samuel.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac Gideon Pruett and Jewell Alline (LaPlante) Pruett; his first wife, Wanda Louise (Caby) Pruett; and his second wife, Gayle Hughes. He was also preceded in death by adoptive parental figures, Ross and Margaret Connely

Gary will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his dedication to education, and his lifelong faith. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched as a teacher, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Chapel in Desloge, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at noon with full military honors. Reverend Dallas Bear will be officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Scopus, MO at 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed in honor of Gary’s memory to Mt. Zion Cemetery.