Celia Pruitt Obituary Celia Ruth (Ralstin) Pruitt, 89, passed away peacefully from this life May 20, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas. At her request, a family memorial service will be held in Mullinville, Kansas. Celia was born on May 10, 1935, on the family farm in Mullinville, Kansas, to Clarence Hamer and Ruth Cornelia (Price) Ralstin. She graduated Valedictorian from Mullinville High School in 1953. She attended Fort Hays State College before transferring to Abilene Christian College, where she graduated in 1957. She moved to Lubbock and worked for the Children's Home of Lubbock while she continued her education earning a Master's in Zoology from Texas Tech University. In 1957, she married Harvie Mac Pruitt, of Lubbock, Texas. They were instrumental along with others in beginning the ministry of The Smithlawn Maternity Home and Adoption Agency. Together they also conducted many Bible teacher training seminars, Vacation Bible Schools, and mission trips all over the United States and around the world. Celia was one of the original faculty members of Lubbock Christian College and also taught at Texas Tech University. Celia was passionate about educating and caring for children. In the early 1960's, she and her husband Harvie, founded Southwest Private Schools, which she operated for over 40 years. Celia was preceded in death by her parents and a grandson. Celia is survived by her children Bryan Pruitt (Amy) of Dallas, Bart Pruitt (Rachael) of Lubbock, and Brenda Pruitt Flow (Scott) of Amarillo, eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by her brother Norval Ralstin of Mullinville, Kansas, and a host of nieces and nephews. "Ms. Pruitt" will be remembered fondly by countless parents, students, teachers, and friends of Southwest Private Schools as being a significant influence in the shaping and development of thousands of young lives. Celia LOVED children and loved to spread the good news of Jesus.