Mary Pruitt 1943-2023

Mary J. Pruitt, 79, of Topeka, formerly of Holton and Hoyt, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023, at Lexington Park, peacefully in her sleep.

She was born May 7, 1943 in Valley Center, the daughter of Elzava and Mabel (Fanning) Carter.

Mary graduated from Valley Center High School in 1961. She was owner and operator (alongside her husband, Gary) of R & G Auto Sales, Pruitt Builders and Tastee Freeze, all in Holton. They also owned Gambino’s Pizza in Topeka, Hoyt, Holton, Blue Rapids and Onaga.

She was a member of the NOTLOH Card Club in Holton and was an avid bowler.

Mary married Gary Lee Pruitt on Sept. 7, 1962, in Valley Center. They celebrated more than 49 years of marriage before his passing on Nov. 10, 2011. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Elzava and Mabel Carter; son, Russell Pruitt, on Dec. 16, 2007; three sisters, Beulah Rader, Betty Kennedy and Florita Davis; and three brothers, Larry (her twin), Bill and Jim Carter.

Survivors include her daughter, Janice Tidwell of Topeka; six grandchildren, Linsey Kueser (Eric), Alec Rodvelt, Kasey Rodvelt, Maggie Pruitt, Macy Pruitt and Mary Pruitt; and five great-grandchildren, Kayslee Rodvelt and Julia, Kallee, Lexee and Mellee Kueser.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 19 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.

Memorials may be given to the Mary Pruitt Memorial Fund (to be designated to local school for lunch money) or the American Cancer Society, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

(PAID OBITUARY)