Joyce H. Prater Wright

Mrs. Joyce Hennigan Prater Wright (Bobbie), a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, at the age of 89.

Born on 1936, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Joyce lived a life rich in love, giving, and creativity; a talented artist and devoted community and church member.

Joyce was predeceased by her first husband, Bobby Benson Prater, as well as her late husband, James T. Wright Jr. Joyce was also preceded in death by her parents, the late Henry Allen Hennigan and Gladys Verna (Bob) Bass Hennigan, and by her sister, Betty Louise Hennigan Kent Cryer.

Joyce is survived by her three children, Gwendolyn F. Hunter (Rod), Benson A. Prater (Susan), and Michael F. Prater (Michelle); as well as her grandchildren, Benjamin A. Prater (Jennifer), Matthew B. Prater (Kaitlyn), Brooks L. Prater, and Michael F. Prater Jr., along with her three beloved great-grandchildren.

Joyce taught Sunday School and sang in the choir from the time she was eighteen. After moving to Rock Hill in 1964, Joyce became a member of Oakland Baptist Church. As always, throughout her life, she dedicated herself to teaching Sunday School and singing in the church choir. Her passion for missions was evident throughout her life, as she served her church and her community in many capacities.

Joyce was a gifted artist, earning a degree in Interior Decorating. She became one of Rock Hill’s premier decorators, known for her ability to draw blueprints and design homes from the ground up. Her artistic talents extended to painting, where she created custom art, murals, and portraits for many clients. She also shared her love of art as a teacher, inspiring others to explore their creativity.

In addition to her artistic side, Joyce was a master gardener, an exceptional cook, and a skilled seamstress. She enjoyed fishing, water skiing, tennis, and especially ballroom dancing with her late husband, Jim. Together, they traveled to exotic destinations, including Europe, the Holy Land, Greece, and the United Kingdom, creating cherished and unforgettable memories along the way.

Joyce was known for her warm hospitality, often hosting parties and gatherings that brought friends and family together. Her love and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hope of Rock Hill, SC, to help feed the hungry, reflecting Joyce’s lifelong commitment to serving others.

Family will welcome and receive friends on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 10:00AM at Oakland Baptist Church, 1067 Oakland Ave, Rock Hill, SC 29732 with a celebration of life to follow at 11:00AM.