ROCKY MOUNT - David "Elton" Pridgen, Sr., age 91, passed away May 14, 2026. Born in Edgecombe County on October 19, 1934, he was the son of the late William Talmage Pridgen, Sr. and Mary "Ella" Brake Pridgen. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Bernice Mae Perry Pridgen; his brothers, Jesse "Bennett" Pridgen, Jerry Bryant Pridgen, and William "Bill" Talmadge Pridgen, Jr.; and his sisters, Melba Pridgen Carlisle, Mary "Helen" Pridgen Weaver, and Thelma Ruth Pridgen Daniels.

Elton is survived by his children, Vickie Pridgen Sledge (Matt), David Elton Pridgen, Jr. (Ann), and Janet Pridgen Smith (Jimmy); six grandchildren; 11great-grandchildren; his sister, Arlene Pridgen Fisher; his brothers-in-law, Rev. Paul Weaver and Donald Carlisle; his long-time special family friend, Linda Ruffin; and many nieces, nephews.

A service was held May 19, 2026 at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Rocky Mount with his son, David Elton Pridgen, Jr., officiating. A graveside service followed at Pineview Cemetery.