OXFORD â William Leonard Pruitt, age 95, died on March 31, 2021, at his residence after many years of declining health. He was the son of the late Bailey William Pruitt and Lucy Hobgood Pruitt. He grew up on the family tobacco farm in Granville County. He was a graduate of Oxford High School.
Leonard had a successful career with R.J. Reynolds Co., where he spent many years making friends and running amongst the tobacco industry. He retired after 41 years and was able to spend many happy hours working on his farm, Pruitt Hills, where he raised Angus beef cattle, fruits and vegetables, and especially beautiful strawberries which he graciously shared with friends. Leonard was honored by the Granville County Chamber of Commerce in 2006 with the Community Service Award. He was well thought of and a cherished member of the community.