Mr. Donald Ray Pratt, a native of Natchitoches, Louisiana, was born on August 31, 1954, and passed away on October 11, 2026, in Pineville, Louisiana. He leaves behind the memory of a man whose humor, warmth, and easy spirit brought joy to those around him.

Donald attended Natchitoches Central High School and entered the Marine Corps at the age of 17, where he received his GED. His service reflected determination and a willingness to build a strong path for himself. In his life’s work and daily interests, he especially enjoyed landscaping and making people’s yards beautiful. He took pride in creating something others could enjoy, and that care was one of the many ways he left his mark on the lives around him.

Donald loved his mothers cooking. She took care and spoiled him up. He will also be remembered as a jokester who liked to make people laugh and have a good time. That gift for lifting spirits and sharing laughter made him someone people enjoyed being around, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Joy Nicole Arthur and by his grandsons, Raxton Jermaine Hicks, both of Natchitoches, La., who were a cherished part of his family. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Janie Ann Coutee of Bossier City, Louisiana; his twin brothers David Smith (Sandra) and Donald Smith (Patricia), his nieces, Serena Monique Gardner of Natchitoches and Orsvonyatta Janai Doty of Shreveport; and his nephews, Travis Mckinley Gardner of Ville Platte and LaMario D'Sean Doty of Gulfport, Mississippi. His memory will also be carried forward by great neices Akia Williams of Natchitoches, La, A'mylah AnnJanae Gardner, of Ville Platte, great nephews Kayden Holden of Natchitoches, Jackson Mckinley Hall of Shreveport, King Travis Gardner of Ville Platte, and Jace Amari Corbin of Shreveport. Among those who mourn him is his dear friend, William Hammond of Natchitoches, his best friend for more than 40 years, whose lasting friendship was a meaningful part of Donald’s life. Each of them holds a special place in the circle of love he leaves behind, and together they will continue to treasure the laughter, stories, and moments they shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Louise Coutee; his father, Lodis Burr Pratt; and his sister, Beverly Ann Gardner. Their memories remained part of his life, and now he rests with those who went before him.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance on Thursday, October 16, 2026, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 911 5th Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana. Viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., followed by the Rosary from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., and Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Lawrence Serenity Sanctum, 1630 Breazeale Springs Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Mr. Donald Ray Pratt will be remembered with love for his laughter, his service, his hardworking spirit, and the beauty he brought into the world in ways both large and small. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.