Val Pritchett, 82, of Waterloo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026. He was born on June 21, 1944, in McLeansboro, Illinois, to his loving parents.

Val lived in Bloomington, Illinois, for 46 years before moving to Waterloo in 2015. He built a life centered around faith, family, service, and genuine love for people.

Val proudly served his country in the United States Army from October 1966 through October 1969. Following his military service, he began a 33½-year career with State Farm Insurance Companies. His primary role was in Regional Office Data Center Support, specializing in database administration. Val was known as a dedicated and hardworking professional who was always willing to help others. He became regarded as one of the leading experts in his field, but he was never one to seek recognition for himself. He simply believed in doing his job well and being there for those who needed him.

Above all, Val was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Janice. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, love, and partnership. Together, they built a family and a life grounded in faith and unconditional love.

Val is survived by his wife, Janice Pritchett; his son, Mark Pritchett and wife Julie of Bloomington, Illinois; and his daughter, Emily Carter of Columbia, Illinois. He was a proud grandfather to Tyler Pritchett of Lakewood, Colorado; Matthew Pritchett of West Des Moines, Iowa; and Lucas Carter of Columbia, Illinois. He was also blessed with one great-granddaughter, Marley Pritchett.

Val is also survived by his sister, Ruth Ann Auten his brother, Tom Pritchett and wife Jane, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Val was preceded in death by his parents; his sister; and two brothers-in-law.

Val loved people. He loved talking with people and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone—even if remembering their names afterward wasn't always his strength. His warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others made people feel welcome. To know Val was to love him.

He especially treasured watching his grandsons play their various sports and took great pride in cheering them on. He was a wonderful father who gave his children unconditional love and support. His family knew they could count on him, and his presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to those around him.

Val's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was steadfast in his Christian faith and sought to live in a way that reflected what he believed. He served as Treasurer at his church in Bloomington and later served as Chairman of the Deacons at his church in Waterloo. His faith was not simply something he spoke about; it was evident in the way he treated people, served others, loved his family, and lived his life.

Val was a man of deep character, strong faith, and an open heart. His life was a testament to the importance of loving your family, serving others, working hard, and remaining faithful. The impact of his life will live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, extended family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Val will be deeply missed by many, but his memory will remain a blessing to all who loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing that the faith he lived so faithfully is now fulfilled, and that his life and love will continue through the generations who follow him.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.

Visitation will be on Sunday August 23, 2026 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and on Monday August 24, 2026 from 8:30 am to 9:00 am at Braun Family Funeral Home 265 Quarry Rd. Columbia, IL.

Funeral Service will be held at 9;00 am on Monday with Pastor Mat Whitaker officiating. Burial will be in Jefferson Barracks Natl. Cemetery. St. Louis, MO.

Arrangements entrusted to Braun Family Funeral Home, Columbia, IL.