Melvin “Mel, M.B., Buddy”” Boyd Pruitt was born November 20, 1943 in Simsboro Louisiana to Melvin Pruitt and Mary Pruitt. Mel passed away on Sunday, July 1, 2018 at the age of 74 in Planada, California; surrounded by his loving family.
Mel was a long time business owner in Planada, California, he was the proprietor of the well-known Mel’s Old West BBQ Restaurant and Bar for over 40 years. Oh, if those walls could talk imagine the stories they would tell. You could find him there behind the bar or at the tables talking and laughing with everyone who came through the doors.
Mel is survived by his son Damon LaMel Pruitt of Houston, Texas; his daughter Letra Denique (James) Ellis of Antioch, California Mel also leaves behind his caretaker Patricia O.; his grandson Timothy Jerome (Unique) Callier Jr.; granddaughter Kierra Ashley Ellis; great grandchildren Bella Rose Sinclair Callier, Lola Monroe Callier; Nieces Terrilyn (Delaney) Morgan Ratcliff, Danielle Morgan; nephew Donald (Meleisa) Pollard Jr.; great nephews and nieces Trinity Ratcliff, Donovan Jacob, Chandler Alexander, Lailah Jolei, Karrington Milan and Chase Luke Pollard.
Mel is preceded in death by parents Melvin Pruitt and Mary Pruitt along with his three sisters Wordie Jackson, Josie Morgan, Mary Pollard.
Mel had a very caring heart for his family and friends. One life lived, many lives touched. Mel was loved by so many and will be missed by all that knew him.
Our loss will be great, but our “GOD” is greater. A special note from Mel’s family, your kindness and sympathy are more deeply appreciated than any words of thanks can ever express.
A Visitation will be held on Monday, July 9, 2018, 12:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 1:00p.m., at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home located at 1490 B Street Merced, California