Richard Lee Pruitt III was born on May 12, 1948 to the union of Richard Lee Pruitt, Jr. and Elizabeth Jackson Pruitt in St. Louis, Missouri. He resided in Los Angeles, California for the past 31 years.

Richard was educated in the St. Louis public school system. He attended Northwest High School and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Illinois State University at Bloomington-Normal. He was a natural entrepreneur and was successful in several business endeavors.

Richard was a member of First AME Church of Los Angeles where he attended service and bible study faithfully. He was embedded in his faith and wanted his family and friends to experience the joy that he had found in Christ.

Richard cherished his family deeply and made it a point to call his family members daily. He was proud of his children and adored his grandchildren.   Richard was especially appreciative of the devotion and closeness he developed with his brother Jimmy and his sister-in-law Karen while they lived in California. For over 31 years they looked out for each other and inspired each other on their Christian journey.

Richard was gregarious and had a large sense of humor. He loved to tell jokes and kept everyone around him laughing. Richard never forgot his past experiences and grew to develop a strong love for his community. He was gentle and compassionate with homeless individuals and always took the time to listen to their stories and share his resources. He was encouraging and supportive and always had a scripture to share. Richard will be missed, but his presence will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved.

Richard is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Jackson Pruitt; two daughters, Tonya Townsend and Monique Montgomery; his son, Richard Lee Pruitt; nine grandchildren and one great grandchild; four brothers; five sisters; four aunts, Rev. Thea McClendon (Willie), Renee Symthe, Sammie Page and Ruby Fortson. There are also many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss his warmth and love.

(Funeral Program: Richard Lee Pruitt, III)