Willa Anita Pruitt, age 92, passed away in Terrell, Texas, on August 27, 2026. Willa was born January 4, 1934, in Aley, Texas, to James Russell and Edna Millie (Morris) Patterson.

Willa was a truly sweet and loving soul, a cherished sibling, and someone who held a special place in the hearts of everyone who knew her. She was the kind of person whose love reached far beyond words—steady, generous, and deeply felt.

Family was at the center of Willa’s life. She adored children and took great joy in loving, supporting, and watching them grow. She cared for generations of her family, always willing to give her time, her heart, and her strength. Her devotion created a legacy of love that will continue through the family she nurtured so faithfully.

Willa was also a determined woman. When she believed in something, she stood her ground. She loved a good debate, especially when it came to politics or Dallas sports teams, and she was never afraid to share her opinions. Her passion and spirited conversations were unmistakably Willa.

She had a wonderful eye for fashion and took pride in looking her best. A true fashionista, she brought style and personality wherever she went. She also loved a clean and orderly home—her home was her sanctuary, and she cared for it with the same attention and pride she gave to everything else in her life.

Most of all, Willa was loved. She was a beloved sibling, a devoted family member, a treasured presence in the life of her son, and a woman whose determination and generous heart touched generations

Willa is survived by her son, Shane Pruitt (Dana); grandchildren, Rachel and Lucas; great-grandchildren, Emma, Edward, and River; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews. Willa was preceded in death by her parents, James and Edna Patterson; Siblings, Aubrey Denise “Pete” Patterson, James Jewel “Jack” Patterson, Johnnie Lee (Patterson) Thornton, Mary Ruth (Patterson) Henson, James Fletcher “Buddy” Patterson, Zella Faye (Patterson) Jedlicka, Billy Morris Patterson, Ida Beth (Patterson) Pezanosky and Joe Russell Patterson.