Charlotte Diane Pryor

Charlotte Diane (Sweeney) Pryor, age 57, of Crestview, FL, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2024, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born on November 6, 1966, in Milton, FL, Charlotte was the beloved daughter of Annie Jean McKinney and Joseph Carlton Sweeney.

Charlotte is survived by her devoted husband, Stephen Pryor, and her mother-in-law, Elsie Pryor; her loving daughter, Alisha Day, and son-in-law, Ryan Day; and her cherished grandchildren, Maylee Robinson, Emilia Day, and Colson Day. She also leaves behind her mother, Annie Jean McKinney, and her siblings, Marsha Wahl (Skip), Jon Sweeney (Lisa), and Tim Sweeney (Tracey). Additionally, she is survived by her aunts and uncles: Jerry Henderson (Cheryl), Ted Henderson (Irma), Susie Henderson Shannonhouse (John), Nellie Henderson Roberts, Brenda Henderson Barrett (Earl), Sandy Henderson Wallace (Steve), and Randy Henderson. Charlotte was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Carlton Sweeney, her father-in-law, Arnie Pryor, Jr., and her brother-in-law, Keith Pryor.

Charlotte graduated from Pierce County High School in Blackshear, GA, in 1985. On May 17, 1994, she began her career with the State of Florida at Okaloosa Correctional Institution, where she dedicated nearly 26 years of her life before retiring as a Lieutenant January 26, 2019. Her unwavering strength and work ethic were recognized when she was named Officer of the Year on January 26, 2017. Charlotte was a cornerstone of the institution, continually pushing her staff members to their limits, ensuring they became the best versions of themselves. Actively involved in several community outreach programs through the prison, her incredible mentorship, kindness, and selflessness left an unforgettable mark on the lives she touched. 

As an avid lover of the outdoors, Charlotte's ideal last moments would have been gliding on a kayak in the middle of a bay, savoring the tranquility and casting her line into the water. She also held a deep affection for the Tennessee mountains during the fall, where she found solace and happiness in their breathtaking beauty alongside her wonderful husband and family. Her creative spirit shone through in her love for photography, crafting, and home improvements. Charlotte had a passion for Disney World, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Charlotte’s life was a testament to strength, love, and unwavering dedication. She was the heart of her family, always there with a comforting word, a helping hand, or a warm embrace and had a laughter that could fill an empty room. Her profound love for her husband, Stephen, and her daughter, Alisha, brought her immense joy, particularly in the presence of her grandchildren, Maylee, Emilia, and Colson. Her family and friends knew her as a steadfast pillar of support. Charlotte’s creative spirit and zest for life, whether through photography, travel, or enjoying the Tennessee mountains, were matched by her generosity and compassion.

Charlotte held an unforgettable soul whose legacy of love, strength, and creativity will continue to inspire us all. She lived a life filled with accomplishments and abundant love, leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

Friends and family are invited to join us in celebrating Charlotte's life. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 30, from 5-7 PM at McDonald Family Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place on Friday, May 31, at 10 AM at the same location, followed by a graveside service at Limestone Cemetery.