Fort Worth rodeo enthusiast Charles Prather dies at 52

Charles Raymond Prather died on Monday, October 26, 2026, at his home in Azle, Texas. He was 52 years old. A graveside service is scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth.

Prather was born on August 14, 1974, in Fort Worth. His parents were Jimmy Lee Prather and Joetta Elaine Jones Croft. He moved to Las Vegas as a teenager, where he learned to ride horses and developed a passion for rodeo events. He returned to Fort Worth to attend Richland High School and graduated in 1994.

After high school, Prather began working in the moving business under Jim Mitchell. The two formed a close bond, with Mitchell describing Prather as a son and a closest friend. Prather continued to spend time with his horse, Waco, and prepared for competitions in team roping and bareback riding. He was known in the community for his participation in saddle bronc riding and team roping during his younger years.

Prather is survived by his father, Jimmy Lee Prather; his wife, Brooke, of Pahrump, Nevada; and his sister, Deanna Simmons. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Eric Simmons; four nieces, McKala Simmons, Megan Rayes, Mary McKinnis, and Madelyn Simmons; and his nephew, John Simmons. Jim Mitchell, who was Prather's closest friend, also survives him.

Prather was preceded in death by his mother, Joetta Elaine Croft. Jim Mitchell wrote a tribute noting that Prather valued purpose, courage, charity, and family. Mitchell stated that Prather rode for God's brand all of his life. The tribute cited author Kahlil Gibran, noting that love for a friend may become clearer in their absence.

Greenwood Funeral Homes handled the arrangements for Prather. The funeral home is located at 2301 N. Sylvania Avenue in Fort Worth. The family listed Prather as a son, brother, uncle, and friend who will be greatly missed.