Alton Wythe Prillaman

Alton Wythe Prillaman, 89, died on January 19, 2021 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Wythe was born November 20, 1931, the son of Alton Andrew and Lena Carter Prillaman in Franklin County, Virginia. He is preceded in death by his brother, Richard Prillaman, his grandson, Samuel Tristan Pilson, and his son-in-law, Samuel Pilson.

“The mildest manner, the gentlest heart” is how Wythe was described in his yearbook from Bassett High School, where he graduated in 1949. His family and friends would say those same words even now. Wythe married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Ruth Howell Prillaman. Their marriage of 69 years was a love story for the ages. Even in their golden years, they might be found dancing in the kitchen or seeking out the birds and wildlife around their home. Wythe is survived by his wife, Ruth; daughters Antholene Renee Prillaman and her husband Hugh Meriwether, Shawn Prillaman McCraw and her husband Mark McCraw; two grandchildren, Caitlin Meriwether Prillaman and Andrew Wythe Prillaman Meriwether and his fiancee, Larkin Johnson. Wythe is also survived by his three sisters, Helen McCullough and her husband Doug McCullough, Nancy Hale, and Judy Hundley, as well as a number of beloved nieces and nephews.

Wythe was very proud of his service in the United States Air Force in the 53rd 9th, 5th Liaison during the Korean war. His favorite item of clothing was his cap with his unit’s insignia. Wythe sought to live a life of service after his time in the military as well. He was seen by many people around him as their champion and mentor. He believed living a life with purposeful work was a great joy, and he deeply valued a job done well. (Some might say he was a bit too perfectionist!) Wythe’s education in mechanics began working alongside his father on the farm and in the garage, they owned together, He went on to work for E-Systems and Michelin in designing and supervising systems for airplane repair, subway cars in Washington DC and tire retreading.

Many of Wythe’s family and friends will be warmed by memories of him playing the guitar and singing. From country music to gospel, Wythe’s talent for vocals will be sorely missed. When he wasn’t singing, he was whistling or humming, even in his last days in the hospital. Wythe was a member of the choir at Halesford Baptist Church for 21 years, where he and his wife Ruth have been active members.

Alongside his mild manner and gentle heart, Wythe possessed a quick wit and keen sense of humor. The ability to find humor in challenging situations often carried his family and friends through difficult times. Wythe was a very sociable guy with a playful spirit. He reveled in time with his three grandchildren, and it brought him joy to make others laugh. There’s no doubt, though, that his favorite laugh belonged to Ruth.

A celebration of Wythe’s life will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at Halesford Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Samuel and Tristan Pilson Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides a scholarship each year to a Bassett High School Senior who demonstrates a commitment to living a life of service. The fund is in the care of Fidelity Bank, 3300 Virginia Avenue, Collinsville, VA. 24078. Donations may be made by check. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.