Archie Thomas Pruitt, Sr., 80, passed away peacefully on Oct. 12, 2014, at his home in Suffolk.

Archie was born Dec. 8, 1933, in Perry, Fla., to Ora Carrin and Archie Pruitt, moving to Suffolk with his family when he was 10 years old. He was married to Margaret Boldt Ellis for 57 years, who preceded him in death. He was a devoted husband and father and a respected businessman, the proud owner of Pruitt Electric Company. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Janice Pruitt Houst, and brothers Earl, Cecil and Ellis. As much as he loved his work, he enjoyed fishing and boating and often played “bait-boy” and fishing guide to kids and grandkids growing up. Archie was always quick with a story or a history lesson or ready to instigate a debate.

Archie is survived by his daughter, Libby Pruitt and husband, John Breyette, of Houston, and son, Archie T. Pruitt Jr. (Tommy) and wife, Donna, of Suffolk, along with seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Granddaughter Christine Pruitt graciously served him as his health declined over the last several years.

Services will be held at Parr Funeral Home, 3515 Robs Drive, Suffolk, on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014, at 11 a.m., with private burial to follow at Holly Lawn Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 7 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army of Suffolk, 400 Bank St., Suffolk, VA 23434. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.