Deacon David P. Prater

Deacon David P. Prater’s life didn’t come to an end with his passing. His life will be preserved through those who will continue to honor his legacy by being faithful servants and living a life that uplifts the Kingdom of God. 

Deacon Prater departed this Earth, April 3, 2021, at the age of 85 in Cleveland, Ohio. In recent years, he encountered some medical conditions but showed his courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile. Deacon Prater came out a hero and stayed strong until the very end.

Early Life

Deacon David P. Prater was born in Piedmont, Alabama, to Deacon Collie and Frances Reed Prater, on February 7, 1936. He had three brothers that preceded him in death, four sisters that preceded him in death, and one living sister, Patsy Pope (Sam Pope). 

He accepted Christ as his personal Saviour when he was 11 years old and joined the Thankful Baptist Church in Piedmont, Alabama. He graduated from high school in 1955 and moved to Chicago, Illinois. While in Chicago, he joined the Fellowship Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Clay Evans. 

Adult Life

In 1957, Deacon Prater moved to Cleveland, Ohio. The Holy Spirit led him to New Sardis Primitive Baptist Church which was located on Cedar Avenue at the time. He joined New Sardis under the leadership of Elder A.J.W. Warren. Deacon Prater will be remembered for his unwavering, unmatched, and unapologetic dedication to his church home. Throughout his faithfulness to his church home, he has served on the following ministries: Male Chorus, Superintendent of Sunday School, Sunday School teacher, Trustee, Deacon’s Ministry, Custodian, Food Bank, Vacation Bible School, Transportation Ministry,  Kitchen Committee, Evangelism Ministry, Tract Ministry, Noon-Day Bible Study Instructor, Clothing Drive Ministry, and President of the Men’s Ministry, Graduate of the Warren Bible Institute (1976). 

“Well done God’s FAITHFUL Servant.” “Home at last.”

Those Cherishing his Memories

His loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Mrs.Lizzie M. Prater, his children Willie Joe Owens, Rosetta Marie Prater, Reverend Dr. David Prater, David Sims, Sherline Potts, Faye Potts, Gary Potts, Gregory Potts (Rene Potts), 21 Grandchildren, 71 Great-grandchildren,  a host of Great-great-grandchildren, two sisters-in-law (Pearl and Shirley Prater), and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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