It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bruce Allen Pratt, age 73, of St. Petersburg, Florida, who left us on January 9th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bruce was born on November 8th, 1951, in Findlay, Ohio, the beloved son of Norman and Doris Pratt. A man of quiet strength and gentle spirit, Bruce was defined by his love for his family, his work in higher education, and his unwavering faith.
Bruce’s life was marked by dedication and a commitment to lifelong learning. After earning his Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Education degrees, he devoted much of his professional life to academia. A respected member of the Taylor University community, Bruce served as an adjunct professor and as the department chair of kinesiology, where he inspired and mentored countless students with his calm and steady presence.
Bruce’s greatest pride was his academic achievement, particularly earning his Doctorate of Education. Yet, it was his humility, gentle nature, and profound influence on those around him that truly set him apart.
As a man of few words, he had an innate ability to listen deeply and offer thoughtful counsel, creating a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Bruce’s life was further enriched by his devoted marriage to Lenetta Pratt. They were married on May 31st, 1975, and shared 47 years of love, partnership, and mutual support before her passing. Together, they built a family, and Bruce was a proud and loving father to his daughter, Alyssa (Robert) Lewison, and a cherished grandfather to his grandchildren, Ava and Landin. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lenetta, and his parents, Norman and Doris Pratt.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Bruce found joy in the simplicity of life’s pleasures. He was an avid fan of college football and basketball and found peace through running. His deep faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was an active member of Indian Rocks Christian Church, where he contributed to his community with kindness and humility.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Empath Hospice and East Bay Rehab for the compassionate care provided to Bruce in his final days. Your support was a great comfort to the Pratt family during this time.
A celebration of Bruce’s life will take place on January 17th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First Assembly of God in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Bruce will be laid to rest at Memorial Gardens, Indian Rocks Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, to continue Bruce’s legacy of education and mentorship.
Bruce Allen Pratt’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. His life reminds us that greatness does not always come with grand gestures, but through quiet dedication, kindness, and the steady love of family. He will be deeply missed.
Alyssa, your parents were such a blessing to me. Their love for the Lord was evident in all they did and it was a joy to know them and spend time with them. I know your heart’s are hurting and I am so very sorry for that. I will be praying the Great Comforter will be tangibly present.
Alyssa, your parents were the epitome of gentleness, kindness and of great integrity. We missed them when they moved to Florida, now we will have to wait to see them at their new address in heaven! We are praying for you and the family during this difficult time. We love you!
Alyssa. Your father was a great man. He really meant a lot to me my four years at Taylor Fort Wayne. Your parents and your family were so much of a lot of my life. Prayers for you all.
Alyssa, I’m a cousin—my mother is Charlene (Pratt) Baum, Norman’s sister. The description of Bruce was absolutely spot on! I have fond memories of Bruce getting me involved in the Taylor U basketball camp, encouraging and coaching me in basketball skills, and enjoying time together with the extended family. Bruce and Lenetta were a great comfort to us during the heartbreaking loss of our two daughters. For those of us who share a relationship with Bruce’s Savior, we have the hope of being reunited one day—I eagerly look forward to visiting with your parents and grandparents again. I pray that God’s comforting arms surround you in the days ahead.