Nedric “Ned” Pritchett Sr

was born on April 9, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Victor Lee Sr. and Annie Louise Pritchett. He was the eldest of five children.

After relocating to Cleveland, Ohio, Nedric attended John Hay High School but ultimately graduated from Glenville High School before proudly enlisting in the United States Army. He served his country with honor and received an honorable discharge.

Nedric possessed an impeccable work ethic that was evident throughout his life. One of his early positions was as a security guard at Metropolitan Hospital, where he met the love of his life, Mary Ann Underwood. The two were united in marriage for nearly sixty years, from their union daughter, Veronica Pritchett was born.

He went on to build a distinguished career in law enforcement with the Cleveland Police Department. During his tenure, Ned served in various units, including the motorcycle unit, mounted (horse) unit, and Cleveland House of Corrections (Work house). Through dedication and commitment, he rose to the rank of Detective, retiring after more than 20 years of honorable service. Throughout his career, he also held various part-time positions, including with the Board of Education, Ford Motor Company, Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc. (TRW), Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), and Willow Park Rehabilitation and Care Center.

In addition to his public service, Ned was a successful entrepreneur. He was the CEO and owner of Ned Pritchett Trucking LLC for over 10 years, where he operated several tractor-trailers and asphalt trucks, securing both city and private contracts. He also owned and operated Quality Beverage Store for more than six years.

Continuing his commitment to service, Ned later worked as an Investigator for the State of Ohio Lottery Commission, where he ultimately retired with an impressive 41 years of combined service.

Nedric was baptized on March 4, 2001, under the leadership of Pastor Otis Moss Jr. and became a faithful member of Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, where he served on the security ministry until his health declined.

Ned was a hardworking and dedicated man who gave selflessly to his country, his community, and his family. He enjoyed good food, watching the Cleveland Browns and the Cavaliers, staying active through exercise, he had a love for sports cars. In his younger years, he owned several motorcycles and Corvettes.

Above all, Ned cherished time spent with family and friends. As a devoted husband, he loved Ann deeply; he was her provider, protector, and life partner. She remained by his side, holding his hand every day until the very end. As the eldest sibling, he was protective of his family and took great pride in being a big brother, especially to his younger brother Gregory and baby sister Cecilia, affectionately known as “Theresa.” He loved them dearly and valued their conversations and time together. Ned loved his children and grandchildren. He shared an especially deep and unbreakable bond with the apple of his eye, Alexis “Lexi,” who stole his heart from day one and brought him immense joy. If you were a friend of Ned’s, you were family; and if you had a need, all you needed to do was speak it, and he would do his very best to help. If you were ever in his presence, he wanted you to be comfortable—he was very hospitable.

Nedric “Ned” Pritchett’s legacy of strength, service, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Nedric was preceded in death by his parents Victor Lee Sr. and Annie Louise Pritchett; Victor Lee Pritchett Jr. (brother); Jerome Pritchett (brother); and Tamara Pritchett (daughter). He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Mary Ann Pritchett; daughters Veronica Pritchett, Traci Pritchett, and Renee Pritchett; son Nedric Pritchett Jr. (Betty); Gregory Pritchett (Linda); Theresa Pritchett; Bettye Boone (sister-in-law); Joyce Terry (sister-in-law); Lula Smith (sister-in-law); Kenny Underwood (brother-in-law); Clinton Underwood (brother-in-law); and James Underwood (brother-in-law, Carolyn). A host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends will miss him dearly.