News Summary
John Pruett, a revered sports editor and columnist for The Huntsville Times, passed away at 83, leaving behind a significant legacy in sports journalism. Known for his in-depth coverage of major sports events and local high school athletics, Pruett’s passion for storytelling resonated throughout North Alabama. His dedication to journalism earned him numerous accolades, including Alabama’s Sportswriter of the Year 17 times. Pruett’s impactful writing and community engagement will be remembered, as well as his contributions to health awareness and his service to the community.
Huntsville – John Pruett, a distinguished sports editor and columnist for The Huntsville Times, passed away at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by Mark McCarter, a close friend and longtime colleague. Pruett was an integral figure in sports journalism, covering a wide array of events across North Alabama and the state for over 40 years.
Pruett’s contributions to sports journalism were paramount, as he provided coverage of major events like the Masters, the Olympics, and college football games. However, he found unparalleled joy in covering local high school sports, where his passion for storytelling shone brightly. He was regarded as a community moral authority; when he expressed disappointment in a team or institution, his words resonated deeply within the community, highlighting the impact of his writing.
Career Highlights
John Pruett began his journalism career at the Huntsville News before joining The Huntsville Times in 1966. He became the sports editor in 1974, following the departure of Bill Easterling, and held this position until his retirement in 2008. Over his career, Pruett received the distinguished honor of being named Alabama’s Sportswriter of the Year 17 times by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association, underscoring his dedication and expertise in the field.
His final column, titled “A final offering, humbly served,” was published on March 31, 2008, marking the end of an influential era in local sports journalism. Pruett’s writing style and commitment to fair reporting earned him high respect from peers and community members alike. His friend, Don Mincher, a former Major League Baseball player, praised his work, emphasizing the impact and entertainment value of his columns.
Personal Life and Achievements
A native of Cullman, Pruett graduated from Auburn High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and a master’s degree from the University of Georgia. His life was marked by service, as he spent over 20 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant.
Pruett was also a dedicated member of the Sherwood Baptist Church in Huntsville and actively participated in various sports leadership roles within the community. In recognition of his contributions to journalism and community service, he received numerous accolades, including the Mel Allen Media Award from the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2014 and was inducted into the ASWA Hall of Fame.
Health and Community Engagement
In 2001, Pruett survived prostate cancer, inspired to seek testing after covering a coach who battled the disease. His personal fight against cancer highlighted his dedication to bringing awareness to health issues in the sports community. The Huntsville City Classic basketball tournament trophy was named in his honor, affirming his lasting legacy in local sports.
Family and Legacy
Pruett was married for 57 years to his late wife, Bobbi, who passed away in 2022. Together, they raised three children and were proud grandparents to seven grandchildren. His passing leaves a profound impact on the community, as he was known for his ability to put others at ease and prioritize the art of writing over personal gain.
Funeral Arrangements
A visitation for John Pruett is scheduled for June 30, 2025, at Sherwood Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service and burial at Maple Hill Cemetery.
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: John Pruett Remembered
- SI.com: Iconic Sports Editor John Pruett Dies
- Laughlin Service: John Kenneth Pruett Obituary
- SI.com: ASWA Honors
- Obits.al.com: Stanley Pruett Obituary
- Wikipedia: John Pruett
- Google Search: John Pruett Huntsville Times
- Google Scholar: John Pruett
- Encyclopedia Britannica: John Pruett
- Google News: John Pruett
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
