Robert B. Pratt, III

Robert B. "Bob" Pratt, III, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the beloved and only child of Robert B. Pratt, Jr. and Jesse A. Pratt, both of whom preceded him in death. Bob was educated in the Philadelphia public school system and, immediately following high school, answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. His commitment to duty, excellence, and service would define a distinguished military career marked by honor, skill, and leadership.

During his honorable service in the Air Force, Bob served with courage and integrity during the Vietnam War, stationed on the battleground in Saigon, where he served as a Draftsman and trained fellow Airmen, exemplifying precision, mentorship, and leadership. Throughout his distinguished military career, Bob was stationed at: Sampson Air Force Base, NY (Basic Training); Fort Belvoir, VA; Craig AFB, AL; Offutt AFB, NE; APO 336, NY; Plattsburgh AFB, NY; Andrews AFB, MD; and Lowry AFB, CO. His service also afforded him the opportunity to tour Paris and Italy. 

Bob continually sharpened his professional skills through specialized training in Construction Drafting, Non-Resident Technical Writing, Audiovisual Methods, and various professional military education and supervisory correspondence courses, reflecting his dedication to lifelong learning and leadership. His distinguished service earned him numerous honors and decorations, including: Bronze Star Medal; Joint Services Commendation Medal; Air Force Good Conduct Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; Air Force Outstanding Unit Medal with two Bronze Service Stars; Vietnam Gallantry Cross; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. Upon his retirement in 1980, Bob was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal and authorized to wear the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Shield, Air Force Air Crew Member Wings, and Air Training Command Instruction Badge.

Bob's last military assignment was Lowry AFB, in Denver, Colorado, where he would later plant deep roots in both faith and community. He became a member of The Owl’s Club and he joined Shorter AME Community Church, where he faithfully served as a Trustee, Property Manager, and the Caregivers Support Group-alongside his beloved wife Dorothy, whom he met and married at Shorter. Bob was instrumental in improvements to the church building, including the development of a new sanctuary, ensuring the house of God would serve generations to come. Bob's passion for photography led him to begin The Creative Eye Photography, a collective formed with several men from his church. Through this endeavor, he shared not only his technical skill but also his creative vision and love for storytelling. His photographs reflected both his keen eye for detail and his appreciation for the beauty found in everyday moments. 

Bob leaves to cherish his life and legacy his children, Yolanda L. Hart, Robert B. Pratt, IV, Michael L. Pratt, Sr.; Kenneth W. Coker (Kevin) and William H. Coker (Delia); grandchildren, Michael L. Pratt, Jr.,(Portia),Michaela D. Pratt, Marcus Pratt, Meshaun Pratt, Paul Hart, Kingston and Syra Coker, Jordan Cartwright (Alyssa), and great-grandchildren Charlee Cartwright, and Betty and Hayden Cartwright. He is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, close friends, and one he loved as a brother, George Wilson. Dorothy M. Pratt, his beloved wife of nearly 38 years, preceded him in death as did first wife Carolene M. Pratt-White. Bob lived a life marked by discipline, courage, creativity, and purpose. His military service reflected his devotion to country, while his unwavering commitment to family, friends, and church, reflected his deep faith and servant's heart. As we celebrate Bob's life, we do so with gratitude and hope, confident that his earthly assignment is complete and that he now rests in eternal peace. "Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.