Larry Pratt, Founder of Larry’s Restaurant Dies, He Was 85
SPRINGFIELD, TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – Larry Pratt, a well-known figure in the Springfield community and the owner of several local eateries has died, he was 85.
Larry passed away at his home on Sunday, May 19, 2024. He began his business career in 1964 with Larry’s Buffet on Main Street. He later owned Larry’s King Burger on 5th Ave and Rainbow Grill on Memorial Blvd before retiring as the owner of Larry’s Restaurant, which remains a staple on Central Avenue. In addition to his business ventures, Pratt enjoyed skeet shooting in his spare time.
“For more than sixty years, Larry Pratt and Larry’s Restaurant were an institution in our community. The business started on Main Street, moved to 5th Avenue, and relocated to their Central Avenue location decades ago. His establishments were welcoming gathering places for all. Larry’s was synonymous with value and friendship. His passing leaves a great void and a profound legacy for his sons to continue.” – Former Robertson County Mayor Howard Bradley
“Larry Pratt was an exceptional businessman but more importantly a friend to the whole community. He was an example of how we should all live our life each day.” Springfield Mayor Ann N. Schneider Williams
Born on February 27, 1939, in Springfield, Larry Pratt was a graduate of Coopertown High School, Class of 1958. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves and an active member of the Springfield Civitan Club. Pratt also attended Rock Springs Baptist Church and served as choir director at Grace Baptist Church for many years. He was also a member of the Grace Singers.
Larry is survived by his wife of 65 years, Charlotte Elliott Pratt, and his sons and daughters-in-law, Wade and Mary Pratt, Dale and Lori Pratt, and Alan and Sarah Pratt, all of Springfield. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Pratt’s funeral services are scheduled for Friday, May 24th at 11:00 a.m. at the Oakhurst Chapel of the Robertson County Funeral Home. MAP Reverends Kyle Slater and Randy Harmon will officiate the ceremony, with interment to follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers for the service include Dan Pratt, Dennis Pratt, Randy Crawford, Bubba Watson, Terry Atchley, and Perry Fisher. Honorary pallbearers will include Royce Yarbrough, Mike Reaves, Don Osborne, and all past and present employees of Larry’s Restaurant. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the service time at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Isaiah 1:17 House or St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Donations can be sent care of the Robertson County Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements.
Larry’s online obituary can be found here.
