Austin Earl Prather, 79, of Shelbyville, passed away Friday, April 3, 2015, at his residence.

He was born March 11, 1936, to James Mint Prather and Cleota (Burns) Prather in Mahalasville. He married Carol Smith on Dec. 11, 1955, and she survives.

Other survivors include son, Steve Prather of Concord, North Carolina; daughter, Lori Theobald and husband, Tom, of Concord; grandchildren, Kristy, Michael, Ashley, Erin and Roo; four great-grandchildren; and sisters, Sue Emma Rominger and Erlene McGill.

He was preceded in death by brother, Clifton Prather Sr.; son, Terry Prather, in 2009; grandson, Christopher; and sister, Minta Gennicks.

Mr. Prather served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve where he was a mechanic and continued to use his skill throughout life to rebuild engines.

He also retired from AT&T. Mr. Prather enjoyed fishing and was a true handyman.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at Murphy-Parks Funeral Service, 704 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville.

Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Shelbyville.

Funeral Directors Greg A. Parks, Sheila J. Parks and Stuart Parks are honored to conduct the services for Mr. Prather.

Online condolences may be shared at www.murphyparks.com.