James Audie Pratt

James Audie Pratt was born September 19th, 1937 in Roff, Oklahoma to James H. and Verna Mae Drake. He passed away on Tuesday June 19th, 2012 at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital. James was a graduate of Southeast High School where he played on the championship winning Spartans Basketball Team and was voted "Mr. Personality" by his graduating class. He joined in the Air Force Reserve and served in the rank of Sergeant from 1957 to 1961, as a communications specialist. James joined the Oklahoma City Fire Department in 1966 and served 21 years, retiring with the rank of Captain/Acting Battalion Chief. In the early 1970's, he was chosen to participate in the first ever National Paramedics Program; the forerunner to today's EMT service. Displaying great courage under the most challenging circumstances, James not only saved numerous lives, but also delivered six children into the world. While working for the OCFD he also ran his own house painting business for 15 years. Other former employers included Melton Surgical Supply Co., Green Meadow Real Estate and Office Manager at Adventures in Travel. He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Lowell on August 16th, 1957; a romance lasting 54 years. He is survived by his wife Sandra, his sisters Jan and Caroline and her husband Paul, his daughter Kathryn and her husband Berold, his son Sean and his wife Shannon and his son Curt and his wife Joanie. He is also survived by his grandchildren Beau Rollins and his wife Kim; Kasey Pierce, Noah Shefrin and Olivia Pratt. He has three great grandchildren: Madison, Aliyah and Simone Rollins. James will be remembered for his sense of humor and generosity of spirit. His rise from humble beginnings to a position of respected leadership; his kindness and deep devotion to family; his wisdom and integrity are the legacy that will be forever cherished and held dear.