David "Brent" Prather

He never met a stranger. David Brent Prather (61), a life-long resident of Tupelo Mississippi, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, following a brief illness. Brent’s professional career was primarily devoted to service and repair of air compressors and electric tools, but he was a gifted mechanic and skilled handyman able to repair almost any machine including vehicles and home appliances. However, his professional accomplishments were overshadowed by his contagious laugh, playful easy-going style, and endless willingness to befriend and help friends, neighbors, and others. 

Brent graduated from Tupelo High School and attended college, but his love for tools and equipment drew him into the world of industry. He was employed for more than eighteen years by Compressors & Tools and tried his hand with his own business for 8 years operating Power Tools—Repair and Parts. Brent’s life however centered around family. An avid camper and outdoorsman, Brent found his greatest joy in his grandchildren and family time. He could regularly be seen riding grandkids around the neighborhood in a golf cart that he bought just for them. Simply put, he was the loving and devoted Daddy, Pops and Papaw to his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews and their friends. Brent was a life-long member of West Main Church of Christ.

 Brent was predeceased by his parents Paul and Mildred Prather of Tupelo. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Viki Castleman Prather; two children, Victoria "Michelle" Christian Rodgers (Brandon) and Justin Paul Prather (Jessica Brook); his brother Paul E. “Eddie” Prather (Jenny); nieces and nephews, David Allen Prather, Brian Thomas Prather (Mary), Emily Herrington (Josh), Erin Clemons (Matt) and Elyse Castleman; ex daughter-in-law, Kayla Marie White; and, most importantly, the eight grandchildren who adored him, Austin O'Neil Rodgers, Kayleigh Jade Prather, Gracie Marie Prather, Haven Arabella Dillard, Brantley Paul Prather, Brooklynn Mae Carr, Annlyn Joy Rodgers, and Victoria Kyliegh Marie Prather.

 While he will be missed, his smile, love, and kindness will live on in the hearts of an adoring family. 

Visitation will be 5 until 8 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2025 and 10 a.m. until service time Saturday at Pegues, Tupelo. A celebration of Brent’s life will be 11 a.m. Saturday with Minister Brian Galloway officiating. Graveside services will follow at Lee Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Brian Prather, Perry Bishop, Eddie Leech, Chad Bishop, Justin Prather, Bobby Reagan, and Austin Rodgers. Honorary pallbearers will be Brantley Prather, Adam Cobb, David Prather, Brett Smith, and Andy Johns.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at PeguesFuneralHome.com.