Emmett Roy Prichard

Roy was a member of Ellendale Baptist Church in Bartlett, Tennessee and spent 33 years of his life working for the Memphis Fire Department.

Roy was Driver on engine 43 – A for many years. He was the first graduate in the United States with a Fire Service Bachelor of Professional Studies degree from the Open Learning Fire Service Program in 1981 from Memphis State University. He later served as an instructor for the program while also working in Administrative Fire Training before retiring in 2001 as Lieutenant. 

In his youth, Roy played football, basketball, and baseball in high school and later played baseball at Memphis State University. He used his love for sports to coach both youth basketball and softball. 

Roy loved reading, studying the Bible, working puzzles, listening to music, and playing the guitar. He wrote many songs over the years and even wrote and published a book after he retired. 

He was described by those who knew and worked with him as a quiet man, kind and intelligent, a mentor, loving father, and friend.

Roy was proceeded in death by his wife of 44 years, Thelma Ann Smith Prichard, his parents, Emmett and Ila Prichard, his twin sister, Emily “Susie” Bone, his brother, Jim “Bubba” Prichard, his son, Joel, and his daughter, Angel.

He is survived by his children: Billy (Cathy), Ronnie, and Leigh Ann (Scott); His three grandchildren: Tyler, Megan, and Brandon; and two great grandchildren, Rafe and Paxton; and sister Judy. Roy had many titles over the years, but “Papaw” was his favorite, and he wore his “Papaw hat” proudly.

A memorial service to celebrate Roy’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 with visitation from 1:00-2:00 PM, and service at 2:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Rd., Memphis, TN.

Roy’s memory will forever live on in the heart of his family and friends.