Ovie Pritchett

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of a truly remarkable individual, Ovie Lee Pritchett, affectionately known by many as Lee. Born in Webb City, MO on September 20, 1960, Ovie graced our lives with his presence for nearly 64 years. A humble soul, he embodied the essence of love and creativity, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Ovie was a talented and gifted artist, whose work in woodworking was nothing short of art. His creativity was not limited to his occupation alone; he was an accomplished artist who found profound joy in charcoal sketches. 

His brilliance was evident in his work and was recognized on multiple occasions, including a third-place finish in the Joplin Art Contest and numerous art show awards during his college years. As Maya Angelou once said, "You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." Ovie was a living testament to this wisdom, as his creativity and talent seemed to be an ever-flowing fountain.

Yet, despite his awards and accomplishments, what mattered most to Ovie was family. He is survived by the mother of his children, Carla Bethel; son, Zachary (Shauna) Pritchett; daughters, Briana (Scott) Norris and Jordyn (Ashley) Pritchett; grandchildren, Storee Norris, Achilles Pritchett, Josyah Straughn; sisters-in-law Shannon Pritchett, Susan Wilson and Cherri Wilson; brothers-in-law Brian Wilson, Mathew Wilson, Jerry Wilson; nephew Joey (Satin) Pritchett, niece Bayleigh Hawa; great-nephew and niece Ryan and Katie Pritchett and his extended family. His doting love and care for his family was a testament to his loving nature. 

Ovie was predeceased by his grandmother Gladys Sanders; His parents Ovie Lee Pritchett, Sr., and Gerauldine "Kitty" Leavitt; brother Phillip Pritchett and his sister Dana Pritchett; sister-in-law Linda Smith; two granddaughters, Kynzee Norris, Laynee Norris, whose memory he held dear.

Ovie was a man who lived his life with passion and love. His humor, his talent, his humble nature, and his immense love for his family will forever remain in our hearts. As we remember Ovie, we are reminded of the quote by Emily Dickinson: "Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality." His love will guide us, his creativity will inspire us, and his memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

There will be a Memorial Celebration for Ovie on Sat. Aug. 10, 2024, 2 p.m at Celebration Church (1301 s. Duquesne rd) in Joplin.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their beloved Ovie. In this way, we can celebrate his life, remember his accomplishments, and honor the love he had for his family and friends.