Nolan Junior Pruitt

Nolan Junior Pruitt, 90, of Springfield passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026. Born on Dec. 28, 1935, in Mt. Vernon, his life was defined by hard work, devotion to family, and an unshakable Christian faith.

He honorably served his country as a member of the National Guard before pursuing a varied career. He worked as a produce manager at Consumers Market, contributed to factory operations at Dayco, and later held janitorial roles at Northtown Mall and Zenith. In each position, he demonstrated unwavering diligence and steadfast commitment to supporting his loved ones.

A devoted husband and father, he was predeceased by his beloved wife, Laura Lee Pruitt, and their daughter Rebecca Lynn Bryant. He is survived by his daughters Leah Conner and Christa Hodges, and son-in-law David Bryant. His legacy lives on through his seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.  

He cherished simple joys like riding bicycles with his daughters while pulling them in a little red wagon and gathering walnuts near their home. He also enjoyed bowling in leagues and had a love for reading newspapers-especially humorous columns-and studying car repair books.

His faith guided him throughout his life and inspired the kindness he showed to others. His dedication to hard work and family serves as an enduring example to those who knew him.

He is survived by his brother Harold Pruitt; sisters Noeda Pilkenton, Janice Grider, Doris Jane Spratt and Carla Rimer Toman. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Lou Head, parents, Jewel Hood Pruitt and Nolan Senior Pruitt, and three sons-in-law, Kevin Hodges, Henry Conner,and Vince Serencko.

A visitation was April 17, 2026, at Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, 2001 W. Walnut Lawn Street in Springfield. Military honors were given at 3:30 p.m.