Barney Byron Pruitt Jr.

Barney Byron Pruitt, Jr., 75, a resident of Central, Louisiana, passed away at his home surrounded by family on December 3, 2025. Byron was born on November 17, 1950, son of the late Barney B. and Esther M. Pruitt.

After graduating from Central High School, Byron attended Southeastern Louisiana University on a basketball scholarship. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education and briefly taught high school. His love of aviation prompted him to pursue his pilot’s license and then he spent three years crop dusting in Batchelor, Louisiana. This was the first professional taste of the skill that defined a large part of his life – flying. Byron and Patty then moved to the Virgin Islands, where he flew for both Virgin Air and Coral Air. Those years were filled with great adventures and a taste of island life. When they returned home to Central, Byron joined the Louisiana Department of Transportation in the Aviation Division and flew for the Governor. His next career move was with U.S. Airways where he flew for 30 years before retiring. Byron loved fishing, hunting, golf, motorcycles, camping, and anything that got him outdoors. He approached life with curiosity, dry humor, and an ability to connect with others that drew people in. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Patty McClean Pruitt; son, Matthew B. Pruitt (Courtland) of Plaquemine; daughter, Paige A. Collins (Lee) of Reno, NV; sister, Linda M. Anderson of Central; mother-in-law, Ruby S. McClean of Baton Rouge; grandchildren, Anna Claire and Reid Pruitt, Ruby and Wren Collins, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Barney and Esther Pruitt; brother, Barry W. Pruitt, and father-in-law, Joseph S. McClean Jr.

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Gardens of Memory on Thursday, December 11, from 10:00 AM until services at 12:00 PM, with graveside services to follow.

He spent a life well-lived and felt as though he had checked all the boxes on his bucket list. We know his spirit remains – reminding us to chase adventures, appreciate the small joys, and live fully with no regrets.