Junior Raymond Pruitt

Junior Raymond Pruitt (Junior, Ray, JR, Cotton, Squirrel), 93, of Elkin, North Carolina, passed away on November 21, 2025. He is survived by his younger daughter, Michelle and granddaughter, Catherine. He was born on May 8, 1932, in Elkin to Raymond and Novella Pruitt, and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion, and love. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Loretta, and his cherished daughter, Vicky.

Growing up with a strong work ethic, mischievous Cotton ran away from home to get a job with a carnival and made it all the way to the Deep South before “getting caught”. He also had a job driving a truck, underage of course, where he sat on a crate to appear like he was taller, so old enough to drive.

During the Korean War, JR volunteered to serve in the United States Navy and was stationed in Hawaii. His role as a VIP driver brought him into contact with both military leaders and USO celebrities. He often shared stories of those days, including the time he escorted Humphrey Bogart and Debbie Reynolds. He fondly recalled how Debbie asked to go straight to the beach, and he carried her shoes for her—a small gesture that reflected his lifelong kindness and humility.

After his military service, Ray made his way back to Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he found a variety of jobs along the way. He worked a total of 10 years at Likum Doughnut Company and B&G Pies. Ray then dedicated 40 years to Angelo Brothers Wholesale. He made lifelong friends with his colleagues there, while being allowed to work hard, have a little fun, and be mischievous with both coworkers and customers. The building has become Wiseman Brewery but you can still see his hand-painted 'Angelo Brothers' entrance sign on the front of the building.

After retiring, Junior returned to his hometown of Elkin and the farm where he grew up; he reconnected with his roots and continued to live a full and active life, constantly working around the farm. Favorite pastimes on the farm included mowing, chopping wood, working in his garden, driving his antique tractor, and tending to his bees. He enjoyed attempting to relocate the squirrels, as well as feeding the neighboring donkeys, local opossums and raccoons.

Squirrel’s interests reflected his love of the outdoors, his appreciation for simple pleasures, being frugal, and the daily oatmeal cookie. When he could be pulled away from work, he enjoyed fishing and cherished time spent with his family both near and far. He delighted in day trips to Southwest Virginia, bicycling the Virginia Creeper Trail on his 1950s Schwinn and attending Trail Days in Damascus into his 90’s. He learned to snow ski when he was 60, and continued into his 80’s. He enjoyed celebrating Veterans Day; and in recent years, it became a day-long affair: having breakfast, getting a free haircut and car wash, lunch and dinner.

Faith was a cornerstone of Junior’s life. He attended Friendship Baptist Church, where he found fellowship and strength (especially when he decided to turn on his hearing aids, this was about the only place he wore them). His fellowship with the congregation, as well as neighbors in the Friendship community was truly a blessing for both him and his family.

He was also involved with Saving Grace K9s in Lexington, supporting their mission and attending artisan festivals, fishing trips, family days, and community events with them. His commitment to service extended well beyond his military years, as he continued to give back but also enjoy causes that mattered to him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saving Grace K9s (Donate SGK9s via PayPal), Friendship Baptist Church (send checks to 633 Friendship Church Rd, Elkin, NC 28621 with “in memory of Junior Pruitt” on the memo line), and/or the USO (Donate USO), organizations that reflect Junior’s lifelong commitment to community and service.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to every provider at Baptist Hospital for their compassion, dedication, and truly world-class care. They also wish to thank Trellis Hospice for their gentle support and guidance, which made Junior’s final transition easier to bear. Their kindness and professionalism brought comfort during a difficult time, and the family will always be grateful.

Junior Raymond Pruitt will be remembered not only for his work ethic but the life he lived and the love he gave. His stories, laughter, and steadfast spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 10:00AM in the Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel, 3315 Silas Creek Pkwy, Winston-Salem, NC. The family will greet friends Wednesday evening at the funeral home from 5-7PM. Interment will follow the service in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. 

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.hayworth-miller.com