Edward "Ed" Ross Pritchard

Edward Ross Pritchard, fondly known as Ed to his friends and loved ones, passed away on March 6, 2025, in Lancaster, Ohio. Born on April 30, 1938, in Patterson, New Jersey, to Wynas and Camille Pritchard, Ed was a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He is predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Ross Joseph, Frank, and John Pritchard; and his sister, Ruth Pritchard.

Ed's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community. His marriage to Pat Pritchard spanned 38 joyous years, and together they raised a family that included their children Ross Pritchard, Neely Childrey (Dean), Cynthia Miller (Robert), Shane Yon, and Margaret Yon (Elizabeth). Ed instilled in his children the values of loyalty, respect, and the importance of family bonds. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Michelle, Meredith, Hunter, JR, and Gabe, and his great-grandson, Zander Allen, affectionately known as "Pookie number 1”, and his great granddaughters, Ella Camille and Lily Bosse.

A proud veteran, Ed served his country with distinction in the Navy for four years and retired from the Army after 30 years of exemplary service. Ed was a recipient of a Purple Heart Medal. His deep sense of patriotism was further reflected in his two years as a medic in Vietnam, where he demonstrated courage and compassion under the most challenging circumstances. His commitment to fellow veterans was evident through his active involvement with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Following his military career he served as Director of The Boys Club of Dothan. Ed continued to serve his community as a Lieutenant at the Dothan Police Department, where he was respected for his integrity and leadership. He was a graduate of Troy University, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice, which he put to good use in his law enforcement career.

Ed's interests outside of his professional life were simple yet profound. He loved to fish, particularly at Lake Eufaula, where he spent many peaceful hours enjoying the serenity of freshwater fishing. But above all, Ed's heart belonged to his family and his country, which were his greatest sources of pride and joy.

Ed's life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the value of service, and the power of love. His unwavering support for his family, his dedication to his fellow veterans, and his love for his country will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He leaves behind a host of friends, veterans, nieces, and nephews who were fortunate to have known this remarkable man. Ed Pritchard's life was one of honor, kindness, and an enduring commitment to the principles he held dear. His memory will continue to inspire those who were touched by his generosity and steadfastness.

A celebration of Ed’s life will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, March 14, 2025 in Sunset Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm on Friday prior to service time.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com