WINTER HAVEN, Forida – Judy Alice (Clark) Prater, 64, of Winter Haven, Fla., was called home Sunday, August 20, 2017, in Lakeland, Fla., following an unexpected illness. She was born August 4, 1953, in Houlton, to Fred and Virginia (Folsom) Clark.
Judy grew up on Clark farm with 5 siblings in Mars Hill. Childhood years depict traditions and customs of northern rural Maine in the sixties and early seventies: Hayrides, potato harvest, frosty mornings, autumn bliss, home-made bread, jams, and jelly; enchantment of winter, ice skating, snow tunnels, new mittens, and Christmas plays; early robins, tiger lilies, church picnics, apple blossoms, camp meetings, music, and swimming holes.
She attended Central Aroostook High School in Mars Hill, graduating in class of 1971. Her most-liked business classes were typing and shorthand; favorite hobby was sewing, an inherent trait from her maternal grandmother. She also appreciated books, literature, youth groups, and music.
After graduation, she relocated to Florida to later join family members traveling with Old Fashion Revival, Inc., where she assisted in the road office and played bass guitar. She remained in sunshine state, and married Garry Prater of Winter Haven, Fla., April 26,1973. As a Florida resident, she pursued a career in nursing and was employed by BayCare Health Care Systems until retirement.
She continued to be a gifted seamstress and intricate knitter and created memorable baby blankets, and sweater sets for new grandchildren. Additionally, she knit newborn hats for the hospital nursery. She remained a devout reader, and often puzzled for activity.
Dedicated to her family, they got together often for holidays. Mother’s Day and birthdays were celebrated with roses, and Judy’s all time favorite, bright balloon bouquets. Sundays were enjoyed accompanying Mother to church, attending Blessed Assurance Temple in Bartow, Fla., with Pastor and nephew, Matt Clark. Fellowship continued with dinner at her brother, Steven’s house with family and friends.
Judy is survived by her husband, Garry Prater; two daughters, Angela (Prater) Harris and Barbara (Prater) McKee; one son, Jonathan Joseph Prater; four grandsons, Derin Harris, 25, Noah Harris, 19, Ashton McKee, 12, and Logan McKee, 10; one granddaughter, Skyelar Sage McKee, 7. She is also survived by her mother, Virginia (Folsom) Dees; paternal uncle, Rev. Malcolm Clark; three brothers, Steven Clark, Richard Clark, and Leland Clark; two sisters, Deborah (Clark) Culbreth, and Peggy (Clark) Craig; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Fred J. Clark; two paternal aunts, Ruth (Clark) Cowan and Grace (Clark) Beatie; paternal grandparents, Jarvis and Lena (Estabrook) Clark. She was also preceded in death maternally by one aunt, Lucy (Folsom) Gwara; one uncle, Joseph Folsom; maternal grandparents, John and Loretta (White) Folsom.
The family of Garry Prater hosted a memorial dinner Saturday, August 26, 2017, in remembrance of their loved one at Golden Corral steak house, Cypress Garden Blvd, Winter Haven, Fla. A private service was conducted in Judy’s home town of Mars Hill, September 10, 2017. Friends and relatives came to pay their last respects and to commemorate her life.
A Limb Has Fallen From the Family Tree
A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I’m now with the Master; He called for me.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song;
The good life I lived, while I was strong.
Continue my heritage; I’m counting on you.
I’ll send my love, faithful and true; Rainbows of color in skies of blue.
I truly was blessed as I remember it all;
Continue traditions no matter how small.
I miss you all dearly, so lift up your chin;
A kiss on the cheek, till we’re together again.
Unknown (edited)
Cards are welcome:
Virginia Dees
3818 Ave R NW
Winter Haven, FL 33881
