Michael A. Prather, 80, of Zanesville, passed away on Wednesday October 8, 2025 at Genesis Hospice Morrison House. He was born on November 4, 1944 in Dayton, Ohio, a son of the late Jerry and Ruth (Gibson) Prather. He graduated from Maysville High School in 1963. He then served in the United States Air Force from 1964-1968. He had a long career in law enforcement working at the Jamestown Police Department in Dayton, then to the South Zanesville Police Department and finally time with the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Department working on the road patrol and marine patrol. He was also a member of Zane Lodge #5.  He enjoyed his grandkids, ballgames, camping, boating and his best friend Boomer. He is survived by his wife of 31 years Rhonda (Hoopes) Prather. One daughter Nikki (Warren) Janse Van Rensburg. Two  step-sons Dustin (Rauchell) Maurer and Nathan (Lindsay) Maurer. Five grandchildren Jonah Janse Van Rensburg, Braxton Maurer, Keizer Maurer, Nora Maurer, and Avery Maurere. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday October 14, 2025 at William Thompson & Son Funeral Home 5765 Gladstone Drive White Cottage where funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Eric Waltemire officiating. Burial will follow in Wesley Union Cemetery where Zanesville VFW Post #1058 will conduct military honors.