Robert L. Pritchard

Bob was born to Willie Ruth Lewis and James S. Pritchard February 11, 1938 in Yuma, TN. He graduated from Central High School in Memphis, TN in 1956 and went on to complete his bachelor’s degree at St. Mary’s University. Bob was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Emily; sons, Robert Pritchard (Melissa); David Pritchard; grandchildren Payton and Luke; brothers, James Pritchard (Kathie); John Pritchard (Brandi); Curtis Pritchard; sister, Elizabeth Pritchard MD, and dear friends Phillip and Diane Mentesana. Also, many beloved nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

Lt. Col. Pritchard’s military service started in 1958 when he volunteered for the USAF Aviation Cadet program. This program was a very intense Officers Training program, in Harlingen, TX that also resulted in graduates receiving an Aeronautical rating as a Navigator or Pilot upon graduation which is exactly what Bob’s next assignment was – Navigator on an elite B-52 crew in Sacramento, CA.

Two years into that tour of duty bob met and married the love of his life, Emily Bigelow. In 1965 he was given orders to Selma, AL for Pilot training and was selected to remain after graduation as an instructor Pilot on the T-33, a Korean Vintage jet trainer. Later, he transitioned to train students in the supersonic T-38 jet but always had a soft spot in his heart for the older T-33 also called “T” Bird.

The Vietnam war was raging, and Bob was assigned to the dangerous duty of Forward Controller Pilot. He flew the small USAF 02 low and slow over the jungles of Vietnam and select targets for fighter jets fighting overhead. With a great deal of skill, and a little luck, he survived that year of duty in Vietnam.

In 1970 Bob was assigned to Lowry AFB in Denver, CO where he supervised young new airmen during their first months in the military. This assignment prepared him for his next assignment at Randolph AFB in 1972 where he served as the commander of a Squadron responsible for aircraft maintenance.

He retired in 1979 after a 20-year career in Air Force aviation. Bob’s accomplishments and service did not go unnoticed as his distinguished career earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Upon retirement Bob continued his work in aviation with Lockhead Martin as an Aviation Maintenance Manager taking on various assignments in the United States and throughout Europe.

Bob also found great enjoyment coaching the YMCA football and basketball teams his sons, Rob and David, were involved with. He also loved to support his grandchildren, Payton and Luke in all their sports including Golf, Tennis and Boy Scouts.

As often is the case, the great ones do not look for affirmation of their greatness but rather weave it into the very fabric of who they are. Bob was no different, and his humble nature left only others to sing of his heroics, courage, outstanding achievements, and noble qualities.

Lt. Col. Robert Pritchard was a hero in every sense of the word. A hero to the country he served and a hero to the family he leaves behind. Bob would have never accepted the praises, but as he ascends to the heavens for one last flight, we acknowledge him for the hero, husband, father, and friend that he was.

As I am sure Dad would say, until we meet again, “Be Happy”!

This family would like to acknowledge and thank Bob’s dear friend Dr. Clifton, as well as all the loving and caring Staff at Brook Army Medical Center who took the upmost care of Lt. Col. Robert Pritchard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans.