Elsie Josephine Pruitt

Elsie Josephine Pruitt, affectionately known as "GG," passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, in Lakewood, California. Born on June 29, 1928, in Maywood, California, Elsie lived a life marked by kindness, quiet strength, and devoted service to her family and community.

Elsie graduated from Lynwood High School and went on to dedicate 25 years of her career as a Clerk Typist for the Long Beach Unified School District, predominantly serving at Stephen’s Junior High School. She was known for her meticulous work ethic and her gentle, private nature.

Elsie deeply treasured family traditions and simple pleasures including family recipes. She was renowned for her exceptional roast beef dinners with roasted potatoes and gravy, pecan and chocolate pies and deviled eggs. Elsie's favorite part of any meal though would be the dessert. She definitely had a sweet tooth which included chocolates, donuts, ice cream, and although not sweet, cheese.

Elsie was an avid reader, especially fond of mysteries, and found joy in watching television programs such as Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Perry Mason, Hogan’s Heroes, The Andy Griffith Show, and Barney Miller. In her earlier years, she delighted in visiting craft boutiques, reflecting her appreciation for creativity. One of Elsie's greatest passions was the character Snoopy. She surrounded herself with Snoopy plush toys, bedding, blankets and various trinkets. 

She was a loving mother to her daughters, Kathy Farrell and Karen Smith, and a cherished mother-in-law to James Smith. Her legacy continues through her five grandchildren: Jennifer Strong (Jerome), JoAnna Muratore (Nick), Jason Smith (Melinda), Jonathan Smith (Diana), and Jeffrey Smith (Paige). She was also a proud great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren: Connor Fulton, Journey Muratore, Kailey Strong, RJ Strong, Sam Smith, Andy Smith, Brooklyn Smith, Mackenzie Smith, Adaline Smith, and Laramie Smith. Elsie’s kindness extended beyond family to close friends such as Chuck Moutard and Joy Hicks, cherished family friend for over ninety years.

Elsie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Pruitt, and her parents, Anna K. Egan and John J. Egan.

Her funeral service will be held on March 19, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Lakewood Village Community Church, located at 4515 Sunfield Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90808. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Cypress, California, at 1:00 p.m.

Elsie Josephine Pruitt’s life was one of quiet dignity, devoted love, and steadfast kindness. She leaves behind a family and community who will remember her gentle spirit and the warmth she brought into their lives. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.