Fred Pruitt

Charles Frederick “Fred” Pruitt, 83, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all, walked graciously into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. A native of Tangier Island, VA, Fred was one of eight children born on February 23, 1938 to the late Charles Lewis Pruitt and Minnie Bounds Dise Pruitt.

Fred is survived by his loving wife and partner of 63 years, Eugenia Marie Pruitt; children, David Charles Pruitt and his wife, Vonda, of Crisfield, MD, Charlene Marie Petroski of Atlantic, VA, and Thomas “Tommy” Pruitt of Parksley, VA; grandchildren, Bethany Pruitt and Thomas Pruitt, who he and Eugenia raised, and Hayley Petroski; sisters-in-law, Reta Pruitt of Tangier and Darlene Pruitt of Crisfield; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Docia Smarr, Cecil Crockett, Mary Frances, Orville Pruitt, Eugene Pruitt, Jack Pruitt, and Jim Pruitt.

A lifelong waterman, Fred began working the waters of the Chesapeake Bay as a young man and continued to do so until 1968 when he started working for Steuart Brothers. He began his tugboat career as an engineer and retired as chief engineer after 30 years of service. A dedicated member of the New Testament Church, Fred was a God-fearing man whose passion for spreading the ministry poured from his heart as he lived in service to the Lord throughout his life. His devotion to his church and community was limitless, as he went above and beyond for those in need. Fred happily took on the task of taping Sunday services and would personally deliver a copy to shut-ins on the island. His deliveries were paired with a long visit, always making time to listen and offer support to all. Fred and Eugenia’s love was one of a kind – the kind that adores and respects, is patient and understanding, argues and makes up, and one that was full of laughter and sunshine. Fred adored his family and never missed an opportunity to make sure they knew how very much they were loved.   

Funeral services will be held at the New Testament Church on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at 1:30 p.m., with Elder Duane Crockett officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. There will be a visitation at the church on Saturday, May 15, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Contributions in Fred’s memory may be made to the New Testament Church, c/o Faith Charnock, P.O. Box 266, Tangier, VA 23440.

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams Funeral Homes, Onancock, VA and Parksley, VA.

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