October 7, 1936 – May 4, 2026

Zella Ruth Prather, age 89, passed away peacefully on the morning of May 4, 2026. Born Zella

Ruth Goins, she was a woman of quiet strength whose life was defined by her deep love for

Jesus and her unwavering devotion to her family.

Zella was the beloved wife of the late Reverend Ronald Leslie Prather. Above all else, she was

a faithful servant of the Lord and a true prayer warrior. Her faith was the compass for her life,

and her family found great comfort in knowing she was always interceding for them in prayer.

She was the heart of the Prather home, where she took immense pride in maintaining a pristine

and welcoming environment. Whether she was tending to her garden, doing yardwork, or busy

in her kitchen, Zella took great joy in the simple, honest work of caring for her home and family.

She was happiest when her kitchen was full and her loved ones were gathered around the

table.

Zella also had a passion for preserving the family's legacy, ensuring that family photos were

taken every year—a gift of memories that will be treasured forever. Though she navigated a

world of silence in her later years, her affection remained boundless. She was known for her

"great big hugs" that made every family member feel uniquely seen and loved, proving that the

strongest bonds need no words to be felt. Her family takes great joy in knowing that Zella is now

in the arms of her Savior, fully healed and hearing the beautiful sounds of heaven.

Zella was preceded in death by her husband, Reverend Ronald Leslie Prather; her son, Bruce

Wayne Prather; and her parents.

She is survived by her sons, Monty Allen Prather and wife Virginia, and Steven Ray Prather and

wife Kimberlie.

She leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Dwight Prather, Jeremy Jackson, Jessica Dallis

and husband Daniel, Cole Prather and wife Destiny, Ethan Prather, and Marissa Prather. She

was also the proud great-grandmother to nine: Hudson, Hadley, Carston, Amiya, John, James,

Irelyn, Grace, and Milo, as well as a host of extended family and friends who will miss her

dearly.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Buzzard Cemetery in

Grove, Oklahoma to honor Zella’s life