Thomas Dylan Edward Prather

Thomas Dylan Edward Prather, 33, passed away at his home in Gillette, Wyoming on May 15, 2026. Thomas was a man who lived life entirely on his own terms-- a fierce protector, a dedicated public servant, a talented athlete, and above all, a deeply loving father. 

Born on June 10, 1992, to Jonette "Jonnie" Madsen Mertink and William R. Prather, Thomas grew up moving between several towns and states. Even as a child, he possessed an unbreakable determination. When faced with a challenge, his immediate response was to face it head-on, often mastering it with what seemed like minimal effort. he was a fighter in every sense of the word. As a teenager in Maryland, Thomas discovered a lifelong passion for mixed martial arts. For twelve years, he was a pillar of the G-Town BJJ community in Gillette, where he was known as an incredibly hardworking, talented, and unorthodox teammate. On the mats, Thomas brought an infectious smile, positive energy, and an ability to take a hard hit and keep moving forward, sharing his love for the sport by teaching and inspiring others.

After graduating high school in Maryland, Thomas moved to Wyoming and found work in the oilfield, eventually serving as a site supervisor for Brigade Energy Services. Through the grueling, physical demands of oilfield work, Thomas developed a legendary work ethic. he gave everything he had to support his family while tenaciously working toward his ultimate dream of a career in law enforcement. 

Thomas realized that dream in 2012, beginning his service with the Department of Corrections, followed by time as a Detention Officer with the Campbell County Sheriff's Office. In April 2021, he joined the City of Gillette Police Department as a Patrol Officer. Thomas cherished his career and wore many hats with immense pride. He rose to the rank of Patrol Corporal and served as a Detective, an elite Special Response Team (SRT) operator, and a field training officer. Accumulating over 3,300 hours of advanced POST training, Thomas became an extraordinary instructor and mentor, certified to teach firearms, custody and control, and crisis de-escalation. 

To those he worked alongside, Thomas was a leader who led from the front, bringing a calm presence to high-risk situations and showing profound empathy to everyone he encountered, no matter the circumstances. His dedication to the badge left an indelible mark on the Wyoming law enforcement community. 

Yet, for all his professional achievements, Thomas's true home was not a place, but rather in the hearts of the people for whom he cared. Thomas shared two marriages in his lifetime, and from those unions his greatest pride and joy; his six beloved children. The best parts of Thomas are to be found in Noah (16), Chloe (13), Terra (11), Jonah (8), Lux (6), and Flynn (4). He received great joy sharing their academic milestones, sporting achievements, and musical talents. To his kids, he was the ultimate protector, the silly and funny dad who made legendary butterscotch pancakes, played birdie and lion, danced with them in the kitchen, and took them fishing, swimming, and to the trampoline park. He is remembered as a thoughtful gift giver, expert baby snuggler, with strong faith in God and love for Christ. 

Thomas was a protector who spent his life running toward the crises of others, standing as a shield for his community and his family. Tragically, the heavy, cumulative burden of that service took a hidden toll. Behind his brave exterior and his fierce dedication, Thomas fought a silent, courageous battle with the mental health injuries that so often affect those on the front lines. On May 15, 2026, the pain became too much to bear, and he succumbed to the invisible wounds that he carried within himself. 

Thomas's children and the family and friends who love him refuse to let his final struggle define his remarkable legacy, reminding all who grieve that none of us are merely the reflection of our darkest moments. He was a hero who saved lives, mentored dozens, and loved fiercely. In life, he was a warrior, and in death, his family hopes his story will serve as a lifeline for others who are quietly fighting the same battle. 

His relentless, tenacious spirit lives on vibrantly through the children he loved most in the world; through Noah, his confidence; through Chloe, his determination; through Terra, his compassion; through Jonah, his intelligence; through lux, his independence; and through Flynn, his gentleness.

Thomas is preceded in death by his brother, Jesse; his grandparents William and Dorothy Prather, and Allen Madsen; and several more family members and friends who no doubt welcomed him home in heaven. He is survived by his six children, Noah, Chloe, Terra, Jonah, Lux, and Flynn Prather; his parents William R. Prather (Jennifer Prather) and Jonette "Jonnie" Madsen Mertink; his brothers and sisters Brooks, Delaney, Winter, Malia; his grandmother Paulette Goslow Hill; the mothers of his children, Maggie Asay and Lacey Prather; and a vast network of extended family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue. 

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." ~ Matthew 5:9

I've been dreaming about you, Thomas.

I feel like you're beside me when I wake.

Snuggling beside me, so I feel less lonely.

 I wish he was here still; 

I wish I could see him again, somehow, somehow. 

I wish he could call me; 

but he can't now.

I wish he could see me face to face, somehow.

By: Delaney Prather