Rosie Catherine Bower Pratt

May 15, 1935 - June 09, 2026

Rosie Catherine Bower Pratt, 91, of Salem, entered peacefully from her earthly home to her heavenly home, on Tuesday June 9, 2026. Rosie Catherine Bower, named after her maternal grandmother, Rosa J. Howery, was born and raised in Floyd, Virginia, the youngest of seven children. She grew up in Floyd, where she met and caught the eye of one of the handsome Pratt boys, Arlis Freeman—the quiet, shy one. When Freeman returned home from his service in the Army, they eloped to South Carolina on June 12, 1954. The couple settled in Salem, where Freeman was employed, and they began living the American dream by buying their first home and starting their family. As their family grew and her mother, Della, came to live with them, the young couple contracted to have a house built in a new subdivision in West Salem and were the first to move into the new neighborhood. Her mother had health issues that required the use of a wheelchair, so Rosie was very busy in her younger years raising her two children, caring for her mother, and working for a retail mail-order shoe warehouse in Salem, all while enjoying the help and support of her loving husband by her side. Rosie loved her family with a kind and quiet devotion, graciously giving to family, friends, and charities. She was always content and grateful for her quiet, home-centered life and enjoyed sitting in the evenings with Freeman on their carport. It was a simple joy she continued in her later years after Freeman's passing, listening to and singing along with her favorite gospel music. She loved reading her Bible and was always quick to smile and laugh at funny stories, silly jokes, and reruns of Reba. For reasons unknown, she did not like having her picture taken and was always quick to avoid cameras!

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arlis Freeman Pratt; Son, Randy L. Pratt; and her parents, Cloy and Della Bower. She is survived by her devoted and loving daughter, Sharon E. Pratt; daughter-in-law, Marie W. Pratt; grandson, Joshua L. Pratt (Ashley); granddaughter, Amber P. Carney (Zachary).

 A graveside service will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026, at 11AM, at Red Oak Grove Cemetery with Pastor Carl Goodman officiating. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Rosie’s honor to the charity of your choice.

A special and heartfelt thank you to Tulima Joseph for helping Rosie live her best life at home during the past year

“Just as a rose blooms and shares its beauty with the world, a faithful life leaves a lasting blessing on family and friends.” – A Life of Beauty and Grace

Sharon, my condolences to you and all of Rosie's family. I remember hearing my parents, Arnold and Christine (Tine) Naff, speak fondly of Rosie and Freeman often. Cherish your memories.