William "Bill" Leonard Prather, Jr

William “Bill” Leonard Prather, Jr., known affectionately as “Poppy” and “The Captain,” passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024, in Greenville, South Carolina. Born on March 19, 1938, in Clayton, Kansas as the only child to Vera Mary Rule and William L. Prather. 

Bill’s childhood was spent in and around Clayton, Kansas, and upon graduating from Clayton High School, he married Darlette J. Olson. That union brought him three daughters, Suzanne (Williams), Dianne (Whitten), and Julie (Gilstrap). Bill and Darlette later divorced. 

Bill married Kathie Hanson in 1977, and with the addition of her children, Daina (Ball), Devin Thomas (Blake), and David (Hanson), Bill was a devoted father to all and brought a lifetime of cherished memories, laughter and love. Kathie predeceased him in 2010. 

Bill proudly served in the Army National Guard in the early 1960s where he received recognition as an expert Rifleman. Bill's work ethic and handy nature were evident in his professional life, where he was known for his skill in working on automobiles and machinery.Bill's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He was an avid fan of Star Trek, science fiction movies, had an awe-inspiring interest in the unexplainable, and a love for music. His enthusiasm for NASCAR (loved it more than life itself), or Clemson football games was infectious, and he could often be found cheering for his favorite team surrounded by friends and family. The beach held a special place in Bill's heart, serving as a backdrop for many moments of relaxation. His adventurous spirit shone through in his love for road trips, especially those that led him to the majestic Grand Tetons. There, he indulged in his favorite pastimes of fly fishing, snowmobiling, and camping, always with a sense of wonder at the natural beauty around him. Bill's life was marked by a remarkable sense of humor and unwavering optimism, that endeared him to all who knew him. He had the ability to lift the spirits of everyone around him. We will fondly remember his funny anecdotes, such as “What else you got?”, “Don’t let the bastards get you down”, or “Why does it matter?” And he would never turn away a chance at having Fritos with bean dip, or French fries with a chocolate shake. 

The family would like to thank Paula Long and Catherine Alewine for their friendship and devotion to Bill these last few years. He loved having you in his life. 

The family would also like to thank Prisma Hospice for their attentive care of Bill during his last days. 

His legacy continues through his 6 children, 18 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, who will remember him for his wit and the wisdom he imparted.

As we bid farewell to William Leonard Prather, Jr., we celebrate a life well-lived, full of laughter and love. Bill's memory will continue to inspire us to embrace life with passion and positivity that he exemplified every day. His presence was a source of joy and comfort, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. 

No funeral services will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life to honor The Captain and his life, will be noticed at a later date.