William Hershel Prater

William Hershel Prater, 86, of McArthur, passed away Monday, January 29, 2024, at his residence.  He was born February 20, 1937, in Floyd County Kentucky, son of the late William Harrison and Ella Prater.  Hershel was married to the love of his life, Marilyn Green Prater, who survives.

Hershel graduated high school in 1956 and retired from Kenworth Truck Company.  He was a member of the McArthur United Methodist Church who was very proud of his family.  He was an avid outdoorsman, loved his horses, loved making saddle racks, walking sticks, canes, and birdhouses.  He loved donating his work to organizations and charities.  Hershel has made a lot of saddle racks for the annual St. Jude ride and rode in it for several years.  He was previously active in Peewee baseball, 4-H, Vinton County Fair Board, Ohio Horseman's Council, Moonville Rail Trail and was also a volunteer for Care Outreach.  He enjoyed riding his horses in parades, telling stories to his grandchildren and others and going to watch his grandchildren playing sports.

Along with his wife Marilyn, Hershel is survived by his children, Wayne (Dody) Prater, Janette Clifford, Dori (Jerry) Buckler, Grant (Regina) Prater, Ella (Keith) Prater, Dusty Prater and good friend, Jack Fain; 15 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren, his beloved dog, Molly and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Jerry, Charlie and Ron; sister, Marcella; great grandson, Jared Champion; former wife, Lois Adelmann and sister-in-law, Helen Overholt.

A funeral service will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, February 10, 2024, in the Garrett-Cardaras Funeral Home, 201 W. High St., McArthur, with Rev. Dr. Randy Hardman and Rev. Jim Taylor officiating.  Interment will be in Elk Cemetery, McArthur.  Visitation will be held Friday, February 9, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, one hour prior to the services at the funeral home.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made in memory of William Hershel Prater to St. Jude Children’s Hospital Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.cardaras.com