David Prater

PARAGOULD, Ark. -- David Neil Prater began his journey Dec. 14, 1934, in Campbell, Missouri. His journey of 83 years, 10 months and 13 days ended Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro, Arkansas, with his wife, Ruth Ann, at his side.

David was a man of "all seasons," and there wasn't a musical instrument he could not play. His Grandpa Prater taught him all about carpentry and life.

He found his calling when he moved to St. Louis and joined the Teamsters union at the age of 19. From being a dockworker to driving an 18-wheeler, he worked for the betterment of the working man. In the 1970s, David was the leader of seven Teamsters members who spoke before the House Oversight Committee in Washington, D.C., chaired by Rep. James J. Pickle of Texas, who was head of the House Ways and Means Committee. The purpose was to help reform the Teamster union. David was elected as the principal officer of Local 574 in Cape Girardeau, where he served for two years, and retired to Paragould.

David met and married his first wife, Edith Wray, in St. Louis. They were blessed with four children, Neil Ray (Beverly) Prater of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Paula Roxanne (Phil) Johnston of Jackson, Caria Jo Prater of Danville, Kentucky, and Berla Kay (Tom) Strong of Jackson; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom survive him. Also surviving are his younger brother, Kaye Prater of Springfield, Missouri, and lifelong friend, Bobby Hanna of Florissant, Missouri.

David and Ruth Ann Wilson Prater were married Dec. 3, 1983, in Paragould, where David began another journey building a successful appliance parts sale and repair service. He always found time to help anyone who needed it.

His parents, Hadley Clayton and Mollie Jo (Minton) Prater; an older brother, Bill Krecmen; and a beloved grandfather, Cycle Prater, preceded him in passing.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Lasting memorials may be made to Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro and the Children's Homes of Paragould.

Visit www.phillipsfuneral.org to send online condolences.

Phillips Funeral Home of Paragould is in charge of arrangements.