1941-2026
Phyllis Marie Pratt, age 84, beloved wife of Thomas Pratt, Sr., of New Port Richey, Florida (formerly of Dundee, New York), passed away in The Villages, Florida, surrounded by her loving family on Monday, March 16, 2026.
Born on June 27, 1941, in Dresden, New York, to the late Harry and Leah (Petticrew) Irwin, Phyllis lived each day with a deep appreciation for the beauty in the world around her. She loved her geraniums and had a green thumb for growing all kinds of vegetables.
A woman of strong faith, she married Tom at St. Michael’s Church in Penn Yan, New York, at the age of 18, eager to begin their life together. They remained inseparable for nearly 67 years of marriage while raising five children. She worked for several years at Seneca Foods and later helped launch the family business, Tom Pratt Automotive, in 1987.
Her home was a lively gathering place filled with music, dancing, and her infectious laughter. She loved the water, swimming in her pool, and watching sunsets at the beach. Those who knew her will remember her compassion, strength, and vibrant spirit that made her the matriarch and foundation of her family.
One of Phyllis’s greatest joys was cooking. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, filled with the smells and tastes of her signature dishes and baked goods—traditions she passed down to her children and grandchildren. She had a talent for creating delicious meals from just a few ingredients and always made extra for anyone who stopped by.
Her legacy lives on through her children: Thomas (Suzanne) Pratt, Jr., Tammy (Alfred, Jr.) Claflin, Margaret (John) Socha, Peter Pratt, Joseph Pratt, and honorary son Jacek (Angela) Knop; as well as 14 beloved grandchildren and seven adored great-grandchildren.
She also held a special place in the lives of members of the Tom Pratt Automotive family, often serving as a loving surrogate mother to Steve Brace, Sr., John Cornish, Glen Litchfield, and Karl Weichenthal.
In addition to her children, she is survived by her sisters Dorothy Sheldon, Hilda Santee, and Mary (Ron) Johnson; and sisters-in-law Sharon Viscardi, Judy Pratt, Sheila (Roger) Bassett, Jody Edmister, and Bridget (Don) Walsh. She was predeceased by her sister Helen Wood and her seven brothers Charles, Stillman, Clifford, Lawrence, Donald, Robert, and Ernest Irwin.
A celebration of life will be held in Dundee, New York, in late spring, when the flowers she so cherished are in bloom.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dundee Fire Company, 12 Union Street, Dundee, NY 14837.
The Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
