Rita Dillard Pratt, a cherished resident of Inverness, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2023, while living with her loving niece in Dallas, Texas. At 91 years of age, Rita lived a full and accomplished life. Born in Brookhaven, Mississippi to Shurley and Josie Mae Dillard, Rita graduated from Greenwood High School.

After moving to Inverness and tying the knot with her husband Robert, Rita established her legacy as the successful owner of the Inverness Insurance Agency. As an active member of the Inverness Baptist Church, Rita's unwavering faith and kindness touched countless lives and made her a beloved figure in the community. Her charisma and infectious spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Whether she was making you laugh or making you cry, you always knew where she stood in life.

Rita's culinary talents were legendary. Her delicious cooking was sought after for many prestigious events, but more importantly, she shared her food, time, generosity, and love freely with her family, friends, and the Inverness community, always lending a helping hand when needed.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband Robert Coleman Pratt, her son Robert Coleman Pratt Jr. (Cole), founder of the Cole Pratt Gallery in New Orleans and accomplished artist, as well as her brothers Colonel Edward Dillard and Shurley Dillard Jr. She leaves behind her beloved brother Noble Dillard of Apex, North Carolina, and a large and loving family of nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.

Rita's unwavering faith will always be remembered, and her loved ones take comfort in knowing that they will someday be reunited with her. She will be deeply missed, but the memories she left behind will live on forever.

A Celebration of life will be held Saturday April 1, 2023 at 11 AM in the Brookhaven Funeral Home Chapel in Brookhaven, MS with the Rev. Tim Beard officiating. Burial will be held at Damascus Baptist Church Cemetery in Brookhaven. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Jiselle Lauren (Pratt) foundation or the Mississippi Alliance for Arts Education.