Phil was born on March 23, 1941, in Greenville, Texas to Edward ''Rusty'' Prather and Margaret Spradling. He married his first love, Cynthia Carol ''Cindy'' Johnson on August 22, 1970 in Greenville, Texas. He was a State Farm agent in Greenville for 35 plus years and most likely, he was probably your agent at some point. When most people would retire and enjoy easy street, not Phil Prather. He literally then decided to go ON the streets into law enforcement as a K-9 Handler for the Hunt County Sheriff's Office until he retired at 81 years old, at that time he was the oldest, active handler not only in the State of Texas but the United States of America. During his time as a K-9 Handler, you would most likely recognize him in his second love in life, one of his duo Chevy Impalas, because why buy one, when you can buy two. And then his third love, Todd.
Phil most likely holds the Guinness World Record of the amount of people kissed on the lips whether you wanted it or not.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy Prather; son, Todd Prather; sister, Jill Chaney;
Grandchildren, Tanner Prather and Brylon Hill; nieces, Meredith Norton Lucas, Raven Johnson, Briana Stringer; and brother-in-law, Doyle Johnson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved K-9's, Dixie, Boomer, Amor and Bo Dog.
Pallbearers will be Brian Sims, Bill Sims, Kody Crumpton, Robert Pemberton, Paul Robertson and Joe Arp.
Honorary pallbearers will be Tanner Prather, Brylon Hill, Harold Roseberry, Kenneth Humble, Steven Sims, Josh Richardson and his fellow Hunt County Sheriff's Office brothers and sisters.
Hold on, I can't hear you, let me turn my hearing aides up, do what Baby. Ok bye.
Condolences(16)
Dan & Betty Jean Cooper
Greenville, TX Sunday, May 25, 2025 Our thoughts & prayers go out to Phil’s family. We were very deeply saddened to hear of Phil’s passing - he was truly “one of a kind”, and will be forever missed♥️Sam and Stephany Yosten
Greenville, TX Friday, May 23, 2025 We are saddened for your loss. Wrapping you in our thoughts, prayers, and hugs🙏❤️.Love,
Sam and Stephany Yosten
Keith Hall
Greenville, TX Friday, May 23, 2025 I am a better person for having known you, Phil. May your memory be a blessing.Keri Fleming Price
McKinney, TX Friday, May 23, 2025 Phil was something special!I met Phil as our insurance agent who took such great care of us and became a good friend.
Because Phil was such an awesome insurance agent, one particular story that stands out is when he was driving to a police situation even before he was actually in law enforcement. He wrecked into what I think was a patrol car! When he was telling the story, he said, “I was distracted by all the pretty lights!” (Patrol car lights!) Bahahaha! He is a treasure!!!
I look forward to the day when I can tell him in heaven, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” He made me a better person by having known him. ❤️
Maggie Spurrier
Greenville, TX Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Todd and family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. Treasure your memories and keep him in your hearts, and know that he will always be with you.Brandon West
CADDO MILLS, TX Wednesday, May 21, 2025 I met Phil in September of 2011. I quickly found out why everyone was looking when he wanted to meet the new guy. He planted one on me and I did not know if I should hit him or what! I was dumbfounded. Phil was always happy and eager to help in any way he could. I do not think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. I will miss you Phil. God bless you and your family.Danny Meeks
Lone Oak, TX Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Phil was the first and only man, other than my father, to ever kiss me! Surprised the heck outta me! He taught me to improve my shooting and didn't complain (too much) when I screwed up at the range. I always appreciated that. He was indeed a good man, a good officer, and a good friend to all. To simply say he will be missed doesn't do him justice. We'll catch you later my friend.Johnnie Hatfield
Dallas, TX Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Phil, Jill and I shared so many wonderful memories and I am heartbroken for Todd and all who loved him. He was such a kind sweet man.Phil and Carol Krodle
Greenville, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 We will miss our neighbor and enjoyed our visits with Phil and Cindy. Kisses and hugs a must. May God give peace and comfort to Phil’s family and many friends. His light will shine on.Michael Heine
Campbell, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 My deepest condolences and prayers to the family. I have great memories of Phil. Rest in peace my friend.Robert & Cathy Tave
Greenville, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to the family .Robert & Cathy Tave
Greenville, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to the familyChuck Weese
Quinlan, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Went to the Academy with PhilAnd was actually our agent forever prior to that.
He was the kindest, gentlest gentleman you could ever meet!
Even though he administered a couple of those kisses to the cheek I continued to love him not only as my elder and mentor but as a brother in blue.
Please accept my apology for not being there as a pallbearer as work has me way out of pocket.
Phil, we wish you Godspeed and are praying for your family!
Brittany Sims, you are the best and we would like to thank you and everyone at Coker Mathews for all that you do!
Jim and Elena Hardaway
Greenville, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Our deepest condolences and sympathy to the Prather family.Fran Sparks
CUMBY, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Todd, looks like you are a chip off of Dads' block, your kindness and humor are priceless. Wish I had known your dad. Very sorry for your loss. You will see him again someday! In love, Fran.Toyi D Stinebaugh
Campbell, TX Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Our most sincere condolences to all the family. Phil was much loved as everyone knows. It was truly an honor to have Phil & Cindy my life for 17+ years. Kissy, kissy! With LOVE and blessings to all....