Paul Troy Pritt, 65, of Lakeland, TN, passed away on April 6th, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by steadfast service, quiet strength, and deep devotion to his family.

Born on June 6, 1960, in Baltimore, Maryland, Paul was the son of the late Troy and Lorraine Pritt. He was raised in West Virginia before making Tennessee his home in 1983, where he built a life grounded in purpose and commitment.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Sandra McCollum Pritt; his daughter, Elizabeth Pritt; and his cherished grandchildren, Adrian and Amira, who knew him proudly as “Poppy.” He leaves behind his three brothers Mark, David and, Andrew. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul’s life was defined by service to others. He joined the United States Army in 1981 and was commissioned in 1992. Over the course of a distinguished 34-year military career, he served as an All-Source Intelligence Officer, including three overseas tours. Twenty-three of those years were spent in the Tennessee Army National Guard, reflecting his enduring dedication to both state and nation. He retired honorably in 2016.

In addition to his military service, Paul served his community through the Memphis Police Department. Beginning in 1989, he dedicated 25 years to law enforcement, rising to the rank of Sergeant before retiring in 2014. In every role he held, Paul was known for his professionalism, steady leadership, and commitment to doing what was right.

He valued education and personal growth, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Memphis in 1996. He later continued his studies at Christian Brothers University, where he received both a Master of Public Administration in 2006 and a Master of Business Administration in 2007.

Paul was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Collierville VFW Post 5066, Somerville Moose Lodge 2066, and Highland Heights Presbyterian Church. These affiliations reflected both his sense of duty and his connection to the community around him.

Outside of his work, Paul found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He treasured his role as “Poppy,” valued time spent with his friends, and enjoyed watching sports. He was a steady and dependable presence—someone who showed his care not through grand words, but through consistency, loyalty, and quiet acts of love.

Visitation will be held Sunday, April 19, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Highland Heights Presbyterian Church in Cordova, Tennessee, with funeral services immediately following.

Paul will be remembered with respect for his years of service, with gratitude for his dedication, and with love by those who knew him best.