Tommy Ray Pruett Sr., Beloved Educator and Coach, Passes Away at 79

Tommy Ray Pruett Sr., Beloved Educator and Coach, Passes Away at 79

Tommy Ray Pruett Sr. (September 27, 1946 – February 10, 2026) of Shelby, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at the age of 79. Born in Cleveland County, Tommy lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and an unwavering love for sports and education.

For over 30 years, Tommy devoted himself to teaching and coaching. He spent 25 of those years at Burns High School, serving as a beloved physical education teacher and coach. His passion for sports inspired countless students, whether on the football field, baseball diamond, or girls’ basketball court. As head coach of the girls’ basketball team, Tommy achieved 353 victories, becoming the winningest coach in Burns High history. He also guided the Burns baseball team to over 100 victories—the first coach in Cleveland County to reach this milestone—and contributed to the 1994 3A state championship football team as an assistant coach. In 2001, he led Blacksburg High School to a regional baseball championship. His love for sports and commitment to mentoring left a lasting impression on students and colleagues alike.

Tommy was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Julia Pruett. He is survived by his sons Rodney (and wife Lori), Thomas (and wife Lori), and Ryan (and wife Taylor), as well as his brothers James and Larry (and wife Pamela). His ten grandchildren—Jagger, Ava, Blake, Sydney, Drew, Hadonn, Paxton, Lily, Jurnee, and Dalton—were his pride and joy. He is also survived by his nieces, Kimberly, Stacy, Lauren, nephews John and Joseph, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, and the mother of his children, Judy Pruett, with whom he maintained a lifelong friendship.

Tommy’s life exemplified gentle strength, compassion, and dedication to others. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched. A gathering to celebrate his legacy will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home, with a private family burial to follow.

Those wishing to honor Tommy’s memory are encouraged to continue his legacy of kindness and support for youth athletics and education in their own communities. Tommy Ray Pruett Sr.’s life was a game well-played, and his memory will continue to inspire generations to come.