David John Putnam

David John Putnam, 61, of Somerset, Kentucky, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He was born August 26, 1964, in Pequannock Township, Morris County, New Jersey.

David was deaf as a result of prenatal exposure to German measles. He spent his early childhood in foster care until 1971, when he was lovingly adopted by Don and Nora Putnam. The family lived in Pennington, New Jersey, where Nora was active in the deaf community as an interpreter.

David attended the Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf in Ewing, New Jersey, until 1976. After the family moved to Kentucky, he continued his education at the Kentucky School for the Deaf in Danville and later graduated from Bryan Station High School in Lexington at age 21.

As a child, David had a sparkle in his eye, a contagious laugh, and a mischievous grin. He loved anything with wheels-cars, dump trucks, and especially his Big Wheel. As he grew older, it became clear that he faced multiple disabilities, yet he met life with a spirit that endeared him to everyone who knew him.

In 1984, David became a resident of Oakwood in Somerset, an Intermediate Care Facility serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He held a special place in the hearts of the staff and was known for his happiness and loving nature.

David profoundly changed the course of his parents' lives. Through loving and advocating for him, Don and Nora became tireless champions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Kentucky. Don founded KCFN to represent families of Kentucky care facilities and served as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of New Vista Communities. He also served several terms as President of the Parents and Relatives Organization at Oakwood. Together, Don and Nora were steadfast advocates-not only for David, but for all residents and their families. In recent years, his sister Lee Ann also remained actively supportive of David's care.

He is survived by his mother, Nora Lee Franck Putnam of Lexington; his sisters, Lee Ann Darby (Larry) of Lexington and Donna Slaboda (Ben) of Athens, Georgia; and his brother, Richard Putnam (Ruth) of Paint Lick, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Butler Putnam.

Though David faced many challenges in this life, his family rests in the assurance of faith's promises. They take comfort in knowing that he is now whole, at peace, and embraced in the presence of God.

A private memorial will be held at the home of Larry and Lee Ann Darby for family. The family invites you to share your memories and condolences in the online guestbook.

Kerr Brothers–Harrodsburg Road is in charge of arrangements.