Robert Lemuel Pratt

Mr. Robert Lemuel Pratt was born in Ocala Florida on January 3, 1938, to the parents of Robert and Ruth Pratt. He had four male siblings all of which preceded him in death except his youngest brother Rene Pratt of New York. Robert, affectionately known as Bob, was a man of faith, with a love of God, and a spirit of generosity. During his childhood, he grew up in Gainesville, then moved to New York. He graduated from high school in New York and from the University of Florida when he moved back to Gainesville. Robert's military service in the Army began in 1962. He received an honorable discharge in 1965. During his service, Robert worked as a medical specialist, served in the Korean War, received recognition as a sharpshooter and later received the Medal of Good Conduct. During Robert's employment career, he served as an administrator at Santa Fe College and served as an investigator for the State of Florida. He retired in 2002 after 30 years of service. Robert was very outgoing and sociable. He loved God, his family, friends, interacting with the people he met, sports, the news, and historical events. Robert also loved Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church; and as an active member, he dedicated his time and talents in service to God and others. Within the community, Robert demonstrated his love and generosity of giving by providing financial support and scholarship stipends to students to assist them in achieving their educational goals; provided work opportunities for men seeking employment and in need of financial assistance; taught little league baseball for many years in the Williston Community; provided financial support to St. Jude Hospital for cancer research, as well as made donations to other charities. Robert was also a member of the Democratic Party, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, served on the Saint Paul Cemetery Committee, and the County Commissioner's Board of Adjustment. He received many awards and recognitions for the services he provided. As a member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, Robert was active on both the local and district levels. He served on the Finance Committee, worked with Harvest, the Choir, United Methodist Men, the Cemetery Committee, and the Conference Insurance Committee. Robert is survived by his wife, Leila Weaver Pratt of 44 years, his daughter Robin [Alberto Abbott], and his grandchildren Robert Zachary Pratt, Gabrielle Abbott, Jalen Abbott; his brother Rene Pratt, and a host of extended family and friends. Funeral services Mr. Pratt will be held at his beloved Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 630 NW 2nd St., Gainesville, FL 32601 on Saturday, April 15, 2023, 3:00 PM. Public Visitation will be on Friday, April 14, 2:00 PM-7:00 PM. Interment will be at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, 2837 NW 13th St., Gainesville, FL. Arrangements Entrusted to the Care of Chestnut Funeral Home. Cards may be sent to 18 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. To order floral arrangements, please visit www.chestnutfh.com/obituary/. Any questions may be directed to 855-5-CHESTNUT or admin@chestnutfh.com. "A CHESTNUT SERVICE"

Tributes

Robert Lemuel Pratt

January 3, 1938 - April 4, 2023