Murel Marie (Mayes) Pratt

It is with deep sadness and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Murel Marie Pratt, who left this world on January 19, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on February 11, 1936, in Cuthand, Texas, Murel spent her life cherishing the values of family, community, and creativity.

Murel was a devoted homemaker who found joy in the simple pleasures of sewing, quilting, painting, and cooking for which she was known far and wide for her peanut brittle. Her hands and heart created a tapestry of love, beautifully reflected in the crafts and meals she shared with her family and friends. Known affectionately as “Big Mom,” she had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel at home, filling her space with warmth and laughter.  Murel loved monthly birthday and holiday celebrations with her family. Easter was her favorite and hunting Easter Eggs.

Active in the Martin Memorial United Methodist Church in Detroit, Texas, Murel dedicated her time selflessly to her community. Whether attending the numerous activities of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren or engaging in communal service, she was a steadfast presence, uplifting those around her.

Murel leaves behind her beloved children: Pam Pratt, Randy Pratt, Becky McCoin and her husband Jimmy, Kim Paris, and Shelia Johnson. Her legacy will continue through her grandchildren, Jeff Crabb, Kristin Byrd, Jason Crabb, Katrina Jenkins, Ryan McCoin, Ashley Buchanan, Paige Pechukas, Hayden Paris Pierson, Clint Johnson, and LaShell Price as well as her 18 great-grandchildren and one great great granddaughter who were all touched by her love.

She is survived by her brother-in-law, Raymond Mauldin and numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

The  family will receive friends at the East Post Oak Fellowship Hall from 1:00pm - 2:30pm, with a graveside service to follow at the East Post Oak Cemetery to honor Murel’s remarkable life on January 31, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Murel’s spirit will live on in the quilt of memories she stitched together, forever reminding us of her boundless love and kindness.

In this time of remembrance, may we carry forward her legacy of generosity, creativity, and unwavering support for one another, holding onto the moments that made us smile, just as she did. Rest in peace, dear Murel. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Murel was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Maggie Mayes, husband Morris Pratt, sons-in-law, David Paris, Monte Johnson, daughter-in-law Annette Pratt, siblings  Patsy Mayes, Louise Cunningham, Brenda Mauldin, Lucille Parker and Nolan Mayes.

The family wishes to thank On Call Home Health and Hospice for the loving care and support provided to Big Mom and our family.

The family request that memorials be made to: Cuthand Cemetery, 5497 Fm 910, Clarksville, Texas 75426, East Post Oak Cemetery, 1498 County Road 2221 Detroit, Texas 75436 or to the Martin Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 93 Detroit, Texas 75436.

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