Ben Tillman Prichard

Ben Tillman Prichard, a lifelong resident of Cookeville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on January 16, 2024. Born on October 7, 1946, to parents Thomas Kenneth Prichard and Clara Ellis Boatman Prichard, Ben was a man of quiet strength and gentle spirit who made a lasting impression on all who knew him.

After graduating from Algood High School in 1964, Ben proudly served his country as a member of the US Army National Guard. He then dedicated 30 years of his life to public service as a Trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol, retiring in 2003 with the rank of Sergeant. His unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of others was a testament to his strong character and sense of duty.

Ben was the beloved husband of Donna Faye Mason Prichard, with whom he shared nearly 45 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and mutual respect. Together, they raised their son, Curtis Mason Prichard, who, along with his wife Abby and their daughter Evelyn Mae Prichard of Shaker Heights, Ohio, brought immense joy to Ben's life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Clara; his brothers, Leo "Gordon" Prichard and Granville "Fowler" Prichard; his sister, Roxie Wayne Gribbins; and his brother-in-law, Harold Gentry. He is also survived by his brother, Lester Kenneth Prichard and wife Janell of Cookeville; his sister, Roberta Ann Prichard; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his gentle presence.

He was an avid fan of the University of Tennessee football, a passion that sparked many lively discussions and cherished memories with friends and family. His love for the game was paralleled only by his love for traveling, as he and Donna explored new places and experienced the beauty of the world together.

Those who knew Ben will remember him as a gentle giant. His quiet natured demeanor and kind-hearted approach to life were his hallmarks. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried weight and wisdom. His legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and the quiet strength that characterized his every action.

Ben's life was a reflection of the values he held dear-family, service, and community. He touched the lives of many through his work, his love for his family, and his unwavering support of those around him. Ben Tillman Prichard will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm in the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Cookeville City Cemetery.

His family will receive friends Friday from 11am until service time at the funeral home.

Hooper-Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.