Mr. John Riley Prater, 90, of Barbourville, passed away Friday morning, May 24, 2024 at the home of his daughter. He was the son of the late Otis and Katie Bailey Prater born on November 23, 1933 in Floyd County.
John was a former middle school principal and educator with the Lee County Board of Education and attended the First United Methodist Church of Barbourville. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying and playing the guitar. He faithfully served his country in the United States Navy and was a former Mason and Oleika Shriner.
On December 23, 1958, he united in marriage with Frieda Gayle Hollon at Primrose in Lee County and to this union a daughter was born.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Frieda Prater in April; two sisters and two brothers.
Survivors include his loving daughter, Starr Rossman and husband, Kevin, of Barbourville; a sister, Augusta Prater of Mt. Sterling; brothers, Otis Prater Jr. of Berea and Haskell Prater of Floyd County; a treasured grandson, Travis Rossman and wife, Whitney; great granddaughters, Abigail and Joanna; among other loved ones and dear friends he cherished.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
If you wish, you may send a memorial gift to Bluegrass Care Navigators of Barbourville at https://www.bgcarenav.org/give in his memory.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of JOHN PRATER.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.
