Eric Lamar Pruitt was born on January 16, 1976, to George and Wilderdean Pruitt in Columbus, MS. From an early age, Eric was full of life and enjoyed playing sports, drawing, riding bikes, and spending time with his siblings.

He attended Lee High School and proudly graduated as a member of the Class of 1994. After high school, Eric began working as an apprentice with Gerald Houser Flooring + Carpet Installers. Through dedication and hard work, he spent over 20 years there and rose to become a senior floor installer and crew leader. Later, he worked at SDI as a contractor and was also self-employed as a barber, handyman, and landscaper. Eric was a hardworking man who used his many talents to provide for his family and serve others. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with his kids, cooking and reading his bible.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents, George and Wilderdean Pruitt; his grandparents, Shead and Sylvester Trimuel and George and Ruby Pruitt; his sister, Pietra Pruitt; and his brothers, Stanley Pruitt and George Pruitt III.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his fiancée, Nakita Franks; his son, Jalon Franks; his daughters, Eriyania, Disney, and Zohie Franks; brothers, Edwin Summerville, Marlon (Laquante) Pruitt, and Jarvis (Tyeesha) Pruitt; sisters, Tiffany Pruitt and Chanta Pruitt; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. Eric will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his many skills, and the love he shared with those around him.