Mr. John W. "Coonboy" Spratt, Sr.

UTICA – On Saturday, August 19, 2023, Mr. John W. “Coonboy” Spratt, Sr., age 79, went home to be with the Lord after a long illness. John was born in Amory, Mississippi on January 29, 1944 to the late Willie and Lucinda (Pruitt) Spratt. He spent his childhood in Mississippi, later relocating to the Utica area with his family, where they have since resided. In 1980, he married the former Dorothy J. “Ruthie” Walker, and shared with her a loving and devoted union. At one time, he held a position with H. R. Beebe Construction, and in more recent years he found employment in the State Office Building in the maintenance department, a position he held until his illness prevented him from working. A wonderful husband, he took on his role of provider seriously and was extremely resourceful. He always put the needs of his wife and family above his own. As a father, he gave his children and grandchildren everything they needed materially and with intangible things like his expertise, his advice in difficult life situations and his love. At times, he showed a rough exterior, but always deep down had a loving heart. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing. He loved to spend time with his grandkids on the weekends and take them to visit other family members. A jack of all trades, he was always available to lend a helping hand. But his heart was most content when he found himself in the company of his family. John is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy; his children, Mae Helen Spratt, Belissa Spratt, Minister Jarrod Spratt, Anthony and Caroline Spratt, Terry Spratt, Jason Walker, Christopher Spratt, Alexander Spratt and Aja Milligan; and a host of loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially Dytayja Spratt, who was always by his side. He treasured the memories of his sons, John Wesley “Curt” Spratt and Emmanual James “E.E.” Spratt. He will also be missed by his sisters, Edith Spratt-Huyler, and Flowreen “Donna” Spratt; and his brother and sister-in-law, Willie and Beverly Spratt. He also remembered fondly his siblings who preceded him, Carrie Lou Spratt, Millie “Mulla” “Milla” Spratt, and Reverend Roger Spratt. His loss is also felt by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, especially his cousin, Calvin French, who always visited him regularly; and his dear friend, Gary Green. He was additionally preceded by his niece, Linda Lynn Spratt; his nephew, Lindell Reed; and his brothers-in-law, Benjamin Walker, and James Walker. John’s family wishes to thank the staffs of MVHS at St. Elizabeth Campus and the Utica Rehabilitation & Nursing for their care and compassion. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023, from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. John’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will begin immediately following at 3 p.m., celebrated by his son, Minister Spratt.

Mr. John W. "Coonboy" Spratt, Sr.

January 29, 1944 - August 19, 2023