Rev. Charles E. Pratt, Jr., 76, of Pittsfield, went Home to His heavenly Father in the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 13, 2026.He was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 18, 1949 to Charles Edwar

Rev. Charles E. Pratt, Jr., 76, of Pittsfield, went Home to His heavenly Father in the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 13, 2026.He was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 18, 1949 to Charles Edward Pratt Sr., and Anabelle Charles Pratt.Born to a Tuskegee Airman, Charles would spend his youth living in numerous parts ofthe world including places like Illinois, Idaho, and even as far as the Azores Islands in Portugal.From the young age of 15, he was a gifted orator, who felt the call to ministry. Post high school, Charles attended The Ohio State University and worked for a veterinarian who encouraged him to apply for a biomedical research job at the Battelle Memorial Institute. Also during that time, Charles was very active in his church receiving numerous invitations to preach and teach at churches across the world. So, after being offered a position at Battelle Memorial Institute, Charles was forced with an ultimatum: to commit to a future in biomedical research or commit to a path in ministry. Charles decided to live the rest of his life in ministry and Evangelism. At the height of his ministry, because of his gift, he was honored to be invited to speak in Chicago at the UNAC Convention of the Church of God in Christ, where he addressed over 20,000 people in attendance.In 1969, Charles married his wife, Evelyn, and together they had four children. Then in 1980, almost a decade later, Charles received an invitation to become the pastor of Victory Temple Church of God in Christ at 154 Dewey Ave, in Pittsfield, MA. Charles and his wife accepted. Along with Victory Temple, he pastored many churches, including Westfield COGIC in Westfield, MA and churches in New Lebanon, NY and Jacksonville, Fl.Now some 46 years later Charles has left a significant mark on the Pittsfield community. Having served on the board for the Berkshire Athenaeum, Charles showcased a rich love for poetry and storytelling. Having self published books including, “Faith Works,” “Pratt’s Practicals,” “Winter’s Cold,” and “I’m reminded of a story,” Charles mastered the art of storytelling to communicate themes of faith, hope, community, and justice. He had a great sense of humor and would often incorporate that into his speeches and writings. Also hosting a weekly radio show called “It’s Gospel Time!” on WBRK, Charles’ voice will be missed yet his legacy will last forever.When he wasn’t ministering, Charles loved fishing, writing, watching the Red Sox, and collecting vintage cobalt blue glass and antiques. He and his wife, also were dedicated foster parents to over 30 children.Rev. Pratt leaves behind his wife, the former Evelyn Judy Gammon, whom he married March 16, 1969 in Columbus, Ohio.He is also survived by a son, Charles E. “Chuck” (Sarah) Pratt, III; three daughters, Lisa (Dominic) Breen , Tonya (Danny) Gilmore of PA , and Terry (Atty Maurice) Powe. Thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Rev. Pratt also leaves his sisters, Francine Manning of CA, Cynthia Dennis of OH, Geraldine (Keith) Forrester of NY, and Jacqueline Wilson of CA.He was predeceased by his sister, Shirley Sulleman and his parents.Rev. Pratt had a PCA and good friend, Candida Cruz, who was a vital help in his later days.FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours will be held, FRIDAY, May 22, 2026 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St, Pittsfield.Funeral services will be held, SATURDAY, May 23, 2026 at 11 a.m. with an hour of visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. at BERKSHIRE DREAM CENTER CHURCH, (corner of Tyler and Grove Streets) in Pittsfield. Burial will be held at a later date in Mountainview Cemetery in Lanesborough.To honor the legacy of Superintendent Pratt, consider donating to the Victory Temple “Building Fund” at P.O. Box 1521 Pittsfield, MA 01202.