Marty Prather, the iconic “Sign Man” whose clever, oversized signs became a hallmark of Missouri sports, passed away on September 28, 2025, at age 67. After a weeks-long battle with respiratory distress in the ICU at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, Prather’s death has left a void in the hearts of fans across the state. From Busch Stadium to JQH Arena, his presence was as much a part of the game as the players themselves.
Born in Dayton, Ohio, Prather grew up cheering for the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, a passion he brought to Springfield when he settled there in the 1970s. His “Sign Man” persona took root in 1982 at a St. Louis Cardinals game, where his first handcrafted sign—a sharp-witted jab at the opposing team—caught national TV attention. Over the next four decades, he created over 700 signs with 1,400 sayings, each one a blend of humor, heart, and team spirit. Whether roasting rivals or rallying the Missouri State Bears, Prather’s signs were game-changers. “The crowd would go dead, then Marty’d hold up a sign, and we’d be back in it,” Missouri State basketball coach Cuonzo Martin recalled in a tribute video.
Prather’s impact went beyond the bleachers. In 2003, he became the first superfan inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, cementing his role as a Missouri sports ambassador. His signs appeared at Cardinals, Bears, and even St. Louis Rams games, earning him recognition from players and fans alike. Former Missouri State star Danny Moore called him a “dear friend” who showed up for jersey retirements and shared pizza coupons post-game.
A successful Domino’s Pizza franchise owner, Prather blended his entrepreneurial drive with community spirit. When he was hospitalized, fans rallied on social media, holding up signs in his honor. “Marty’s creativity and passion brought us all together,” said Missouri State Athletics Director Patrick Ransdell.
Prather’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes, with Missouri State Athletics posting, “We lost a true legend today.” Services are pending, but fans are already planning to honor him with a sea of signs. Marty Prather didn’t just cheer for his teams—he elevated the fan experience, turning poster board into a legacy of joy, unity, and unforgettable moments. Rest in peace, Sign Man. Your wit and spirit will echo in every Missouri sports memory.
Missouri State Athletics on X (formerly Twitter): “Missouri State and the Springfield community lost a true legend today with the passing of “The Sign Man” Marty Prather. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.#GoBears | #WeAreMoState pic.twitter.com/u3PQmtUmor / X”
Missouri State and the Springfield community lost a true legend today with the passing of “The Sign Man” Marty Prather. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.#GoBears | #WeAreMoState pic.twitter.com/u3PQmtUmor
