William Eugene Prather, 79, of Martinsville, passed away peacefully at his residence at 3:03 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24th, 2025, after an extended illness. A native and lifelong resident of Martinsville, he was born on Friday, June 14th, 1946, at home in Martinsville to the late James Marvin and Margaret Luella (Lewis) Prather.

A proud veteran, William honorably served his country during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Intrepid, earning his discharge as an E-4 from the United States Navy.

Following his service, he dedicated more than 30 years of employment to Indianapolis Power & Light, working at the Pritchard Plant in Martinsville and retiring as a supervisor in 2000.

William enjoyed a full life and had many passions. He loved riding motorcycles, camping, and boating. After retirement, he especially cherished his winters spent in Florida, where he took great joy in playing shuffleboard, walking his dog, playing cards, and “pimping out” his golf cart. His fun-loving spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by two sons, Cameron and Scott (wife, Crystal) Prather both of Martinsville, IN; daughter, Marnetta Prather of Martinsville, IN; brother, Robert (wife, Janet) Prather of Paragon, IN; 4 sisters, Charlotte (husband, Doug) Scrogham of Franklin, IN, Joyce Troxal of Terre Haute, IN, Margaret (husband, John) LaMar of Brownsburg, IN, and Rebecca Prather of Martinsville, IN; 3 grandchildren, William (wife, Chelsea) Prather, Brianna Prather (Austin Ku), and Anna Marie Prather; and a special friend, Brenda Gentry of Dade City, FL;

Along with his parents, William was preceded in death by one brother, James Prather.

In honoring William’s wishes, his earthly remains will be cremated, and the family will behosting a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at a later date.

Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center has been entrusted with Mr. Prather’s final arrangements. Condolences and memories are encouraged to be shared with the Prather family online at www.nealandsummers.com