John Alfred Pritchett III (March 2, 1954 – August 2, 2026)

John Alfred Pritchett III passed away on August 2, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on March 2, 1954, Alfred lived his life as a loving father, a deeply loyal friend, and husband.

Throughout his life, Alfred found profound peace and inspiration in farming and the outdoors. He had a deep love of animals and possessed a gentle spirit that creatures of all kinds instinctively trusted. He was a natural storyteller with an incredible imagination and a deep-seated hunger for knowledge. His strong relationship with God comforted and guided him throughout life’s wonders and struggles.

From garbageman to lifelong educator, Alfred found meaning in every job he held. His favorite stories included his time working at Ed Hardy Trash Company, his work at Farmer’s Hardware, his work as a librarian in Wilkes County schools, and his various roles as a media specialist at Appalachian State University prior to his retirement. But his true life's work was the family farm in Vilas. A self-proclaimed hillbilly, he valued nothing more than spending a hard day’s work outside, but his love of knowledge kept him reading late into the night and often searching for the next debate or long conversation. He had a profound love for life, but especially for his family, the Appalachian Mountains and, above all, laughing. Whether it was late-night ping pong tournaments, playing sports (better than everyone), sharing his humorous observations about the world, or telling one of his famously elaborate stories to anyone willing to listen, he was always looking for his next laugh. He was truly one of a kind and will be remembered for his quick smile and appreciation for the simple things.

Alfred was preceded in death by his beloved son, Walden James Pritchett; his parents, John and Agnes Pritchett of Vilas, NC; and other cherished family members.

He is survived by his wife, Elissa Pritchett; his daughter Sarah and her husband, Ward Zimmerman, of Concord, MA; his son J. Levi Pritchett of Vilas, NC; and his daughter Rebekah and her husband, Bobby Garcia, of Wilmington, NC. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ward, Grey, Maddox, and Nora; his sister, Cassandra Mabe of Johnson City, TN; his brother, Charles and his wife, Joy Pritchett, of Vilas, NC; several nieces, a nephew, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many dear family and friends.

In honor of Alfred’s wishes, there will be a small graveside ceremony at the family’s private mountaintop cemetery

Online condolences may be sent to the Pritchett family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.