The South Glens Falls community is mourning the death of Timothy Pratt. The trooper lived in the village.
New York State Police say the 55-year-old died after being hit by a vehicle on a road near his police station Wednesday morning.
For years, Pratt was a quiet fixture at one of the area’s most popular annual events.
“I can’t remember a time when he wasn’t here and helping us out,” said Jody Sheldon, a teacher at South Glens Falls High School.
South Glens Falls residents are remembering Timothy Pratt, not only for his decades of service as a state trooper, but also for his years of volunteer work overseeing security at the South High Marathon Dance.
“Phenomenal. He made sure everybody was safe. They do hourly sweeps, and he led that,” said Kevin Middleton, a senior at the school and dance volunteer.
“You’re losing a part of your South High family, and that is really what the marathon dance is. It is family,” said Sheldon.
The event, held every March, includes 28 straight hours of dancing. The dance typically draws hundreds and helps raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities.
“As you come in to the main entrance to the dance, you typically would see Timmy Pratt standing proud with a smile, but reserved, chatting with many of the visitors and or parents or students or whatever, because he knew everybody,” said Tom Myott, teacher and dance volunteer.
Pratt is remembered fondly by dozens of volunteers. Students say his commitment and sacrifice won’t soon be forgotten.
“I hope when we dance, we do it for our recipients and who we picked to do this for, but we should always keep in mind what he did for us and how he helped us out throughout the dance,” said Middleton.