Obituary of Charles John Pratt

Charles John Pratt, 3rd son of the late Ogden Pratt “Bus” and Alice Wise Pratt, was born on April 30, 1933 in Mt. Holly, New Jersey.  On Father’s Day June 16, 2019 he died quietly at his home in Pennsauken, New Jersey.

During his time of illness, he was lovingly cared for by his children, Charles and Arleen, Frannie, grandson Kyle, Uncle Jack Coles who lived with him and cared for him allowing him to remain in his home. Trisha Norman his caregiver who called him “Pops”, whom he became very fond of. 

Charles, affectionately known as “Bozo” attended Palmyra Public Schools and graduated from Palmyra High School in 1953.  Coming from a sport-oriented family starting with his father, Charles enjoyed many sports such as football (his #1 sport), baseball, boxing, golfing, bowling, fishing and hunting.  While in high school, Charles played football and was remembered as the “Spark Plug” of the team, contributing to Palmyra winning two championship games.  In later years, he was one of many inducted onto the Palmyra High School Hall of Fame.

After graduation, he entered the U.S. Army and continued to play football and run track for the Armed Forces.  Upon completing his military service, he began his work career culminating at Ford Motor Company in Pennsauken, New Jersey, making many lifelong friends and retiring after 23 years. After retirement, he became a crossing guard for Pennsauken Elementary Public Schools in which he enjoyed safely crossing the children until he could no longer work.

Charles was an active member of St. Paul U.A.M.E. Church in Palmyra, New Jersey. He enjoyed all his church family, visiting the sick and shut in, and the special talks with Rev. Anderson.

Charles was predeceased by his Brothers: Herbie, Norman and Sandy. 

Those Blessed with his loving memories are Son Charles, Daughter Arleen, Grandsons Kyle and Jordan, Frannie Coles, Brothers Lawrence Pratt, Sr., Wayne Chinn and Robin Pratt, Godchild Antionette Howard and host of family and friends.