James Russell Pruitt, known affectionately as Jim, passed away on July 30, 2026, just two days before his 81st birthday. He was born on August 2, 1945, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and grew up in Antioch outside Beebe, where he lived most of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aline Beard Pruitt and James Russell Pruitt.

Jim was a farm boy at heart, shaped by hard work, small-town values, and his years growing up in Beebe. He graduated from Beebe High School in 1963, where he was a loyal Badger and an active athlete. He played football and basketball, ran track, and carried a love of sports with him throughout his life. His greatest enthusiasm was for being a cowboy and riding bucking bulls and broncs, earning championships in 1971 and 1974 as the State Bareback rider. The win in 1971 led him to ride in Madison Square Garden in New York before hanging up that saddle. He also enjoyed his career as an auctioneer for many years. He had several hobbies: hunting and golf—but his favorite was fishing. He loved to catch ’em, fry them, and share with family and friends. His crappie were the very best! All these experiences provided a rich background to share with others through his entertaining stories, jokes, and tales.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Lauren Pruitt Ford, and her husband, Henry Joseph Ford II; his only grandson, Henry Joseph Ford III, of Little Rock; sisters Merilyn Pruitt Burruss and Kay Pruitt Allen; nieces Gracie Burruss and Mamie Burruss, all of Little Rock; along with many Pruitt cousins and a host of friends. He is also survived by his wife of 43 years, Gloria Fancher Pruitt. Jim spent his last three years at the Cottages of Poplar Grove, where he was well loved and nicknamed “Cowboy” for his stories, domino skills, and friendship.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life at Antioch Community Church at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026. The family requests memorials be made to Antioch Church, to Wounded Warriors, or to a nonprofit of your choice.