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John Frederick Prough, born on March 29, 1932, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on August 9, 2026, in Durant, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of faith, hard work, and devotion to family and community.
He was a loving, kind, and friendly man whose life reflected the values he held dear. John lived with purpose and determination, and he was known as a money minded businessman who worked diligently to provide for those he loved. Through the years, he became a familiar and respected presence in Durant, where he helped shape the local community in meaningful ways. He opened the first ice cream shop on First Street in Durant, Oklahoma, and later opened the first rental shop in Durant, Oklahoma, showing both vision and initiative in his work. His efforts were more than business accomplishments, for they were also expressions of his commitment to building a better life for his family and neighbors.
John was a faithful Christian and a devoted member and deacon of First Baptist Church in Durant, Oklahoma. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he sought to live in a way that honored the Lord. He found strength in his beliefs, and he shared that strength through his steady presence, his kind spirit, and his willingness to serve others. Those who knew him will remember a man who carried himself with humility and grace, and who valued fellowship, worship, and the simple blessings of daily life.
He enjoyed many things throughout his life, and he found joy in the company of others and in the activities that brought him happiness. He was an avid bowler, and he enjoyed square dancing with his wife, Dorothy, creating memories that remained dear to him throughout the years. He also loved going to yard sales, where he found pleasure in the search and delight in the treasures he discovered. These interests reflected his cheerful nature and his appreciation for the everyday moments that make life meaningful.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy (Conner) Prough, as well as his sons Ricky Prough and Kenneth Prough, and his grandson Trevor Prough. He was also preceded in death by his father, John Thomas Prough, his mother, Ella Grace (Gibson) Prough, and his sister Linda Snorgrass. Though these losses were deeply felt, John carried on with faith and resilience, trusting in God's care and holding close the love of those who remained in his life.
He is survived by his son Jerrell D. Prough and his wife Jeanine of Durant, Oklahoma, and his daughter Cynthia Thomas of Pawley's Island, South Carolina. He also leaves behind his grandsons Conner Prough, Brandon Thomas, and Johnathan Prough, and his granddaughters Krystal Gray and Caroline Prough. He was blessed with five great-grandchildren, who brought joy to his later years. He is also survived by his brothers Clay Prough, Robert Prough, and Tom Prough, and his sisters Ruth Ann Russell, Nancy Hughes, Terry Sobotka, and Linda Snorgrass's memory remains cherished among the family he loved.
John will be remembered for the life he lived, the work he accomplished, and the love he gave so freely. His family and friends will remember his steady character, his warm heart, and the many ways he blessed those around him. His life was a testimony to faith, perseverance, and devotion, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Family hour will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM, at the First Baptist Church in Durant, Oklahoma with Bro. Jim Hodson officiating. Burial will immediately follow in the Highland Cemetery in Durant, Oklahoma. Serving as pallbearers will be Brandon Thomas, Elliott Thomas, Ryan Gray, Mike Coburn, Alan Hobbs, and Edgar Torres. Honorary pallbearers will be his Sunday School Class.
In lieu of flowers please make memorials to the Pregnancy Center of Durant, 308 N 2nd Ave., Durant, Oklahoma 74701.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. www.holmescoffeymurray.com.