Otis George Pryor Jr. was born October 19, 1948, in Springfield, Illinois, to Otis Pryor Sr. and Dorothy Pryor. He was the youngest of six children. He grew up in the small town of Boss, MO. Once he graduated from high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and fought in the Vietnam War. Returning home from his tour in Vietnam, he fell in love with and married Patricia Luise Rodriguez of Hawthorne, NV.
In 1971, with their oldest son Paul, they moved back to Otis’ hometown in Missouri to be near his parents and family. It is here that he began his lifelong career in the mining industry. While in Missouri, Otis and Patricia welcomed the births of Margie (1972) and Joshua (1974).
In 1977, Otis and his family moved back to Nevada so he could continue his career in the mining industry, which took him to such remote places as Gabbs, Luning, Hawthorne, Austin, and Fallon. Otis specialized in heavy equipment mechanics, became a Master Mechanic, and a respected supervisor. Throughout his life and career, he created lifelong friendships with his contagious laughter and big heart. He could be counted upon to help anyone in need. Otis was known for his quick-fire intellect. He enjoyed a fierce game of Scrabble (especially with his wife Pat), reading, watching Jeopardy, going on several motorcycle trips throughout the United States and Canada, exploring the mountains, traveling, and spending time with treasured friends and family.
In 2021, after the passing of his wife Patricia (2019) and battling health issues, Otis decided to return home to Missouri to be near his siblings and extended family. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at his home in Salem, Missouri.
Otis is survived by his loving children, Paul Pryor of Nevada and Margie Pryor of Washington; siblings, Faye Grant of Salem, MO, Rosemary Black of Florida, and Jim Pryor of Boss, MO; grandsons, Xavier and Schuyler as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.
Preceding him in death, loving wife Patricia Pryor; son Josh Pryor; parents Otis Sr. and Dorothy Pryor; sisters Mae Burch and Gloria Pryor.
A Celebration of Life will be held at The Twisted Branch in Fallon, NV, on Saturday, October 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. “Otis”isms will be shared, as well as food and drinks.
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