Roger Clark Pridgen, 80, of Pinetops, passed away and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Roger was born on November 6, 1945, to the late Charlie Edgar Pridgen and Bettie Forbes Pridgen. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy was spending time with the people he loved.

Roger attended South Edgecombe High School, where he developed a lifelong passion for athletics. He played sports throughout his school years and remained an avid sports enthusiast throughout his life. More than 40 years ago, he discovered a love for golf, a game that became one of his greatest pleasures and introduced him to countless lifelong friendships.

Following his graduation from high school in 1964, Roger proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1965 until 1969 stationed in North Dakota for a brief time before going to Spain for 3 years. After his honorable discharge, he began a career as a technician with Bell Systems, where he worked until his retirement in 2000. Roger continued working as an independent contractor for several communications companies for many years after retirement.

When declining health no longer allowed him to play golf, Roger found another way to remain close to the sport he loved. He became a familiar face in the pro shop at Maccripine Country Club, a place he considered his home away from home. There, he formed lasting friendships, enjoyed the fellowship of his "second family," and especially looked forward to many spirited games of setback.

Roger was known for his kind heart, easy smile, and unwavering love for his family and friends. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome. His quiet strength, generous spirit, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by an infant sibling; his brothers, Milton Pridgen, James Pridgen, Charles Pridgen, Phillip Pridgen, Ray Pridgen, and Tim Pridgen; and his sisters, Ida Faye Gaynor, Mabel Weaver, Rebecca Powell, Loretta Maddry, and Mary Edwards.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 54 years and the love of his life, Nita Allen Pridgen; his daughter, Shannon McLean and husband, Stacey, of Clayton; his cherished grandchildren, April McLean Lewis and husband, Jordan, Clark McLean, Rachel McLean, and J. Eric McLean; his sisters, Judy Brown and husband, Charlie, of New Bern, and Donna Jones of Whitakers; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Roger's Life will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Eagles Baptist Church 226 NC 124 W, Macclesfield, NC 27852. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the church and other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers consider contributions to Eagles Baptist Church.