Dr. Keith W. Prichard

Dr. Keith W. Prichard, of 115 Retirement Drive, Runk and Pratt Residential Health Care, Hardy, Va., died on Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016 at Roanoke Memorial Hospital at 87 years of age.

He was the son of the late Cedric Thomas Prichard and Alice Clara Heavin Prichard.

Dr. Prichard was born in Putnam County on Jan. 25, 1929.

He was a 1948 Greencastle High School graduate. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-54.

Dr. Prichard was a life-long educator. He was a graduate of Indiana University. He held a master's degree from Columbia University in New York and earned his doctorate at Harvard University in 1961. He served as a professor of sociology at Wake Forest University and the University of Nebraska, and adjunct professor at the University of Virginia.

He was an author of several books and articles, among them, "Black Student's Guide to College Success." He was honored as "Professor of the Year" in 1966 at Wake Forest University. Later, he received the same honor at the University of Nebraska.

He had many interests and hobbies, including painting, gardening and horses. Prior to moving to Runk and Pratt, he lived in Lexington, Ky., and worked for the world-famous stable Overbrook Farm.

He was a prolific reader with a special interest in European history. Dr. Prichard was a mentor to many students, many of whom still kept in contact with him throughout his life.

He is survived by three loving sisters, Ginny Brock of Union Hall, Va., Win Vivian and Jean Prichard of Richmond, Ind., and a beloved brother-in-law, Arnie Brock. He was very proud of his four nieces, Dr. Judy Royer, Cathy Druley, Susan Barton and Carolyn Sloan.

Graveside service was conducted Friday, Nov. 11 at New Providence Baptist Church in Mount Meridian.

The world is a better place because of Dr. Prichard's contributions.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Smith Mountain Lake, Va., is assisting the family.

To send condolences please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.