Gladys Marian Pramuk

Gladys Doherty Pramuk, 91, of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her home on September 20, 2025. Born October 9, 1933, in New Jersey, she was the daughter of John and Catherine Gladys Doherty.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Jack Pramuk, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and learning. Gladys is survived by her six children: Edward, (Laura), Catherine Dunn (Stephen), John Jr. (Linda), Christopher (Lauri), Mary Emrich (Tim), and Jacqueline Board (Danny). She was blessed with eighteen grandchildren (and predeceased by two) and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom she treasured dearly. She is also survived by her sister, Sr. Mary Christopher John Doherty of the Order of St. Francis, in Allegheny NY, sisters-in-law Joan Murphy and Regina Ryan, brother-in-law John Devine, and predeceased by in-laws Ann Devine and Jere Pramuk. Gladys had six special nieces and nephews, as well as a dear companion and guardian angel, Misty Sweat.

In 1967, Gladys and Jack moved their young family to Lexington, drawn by the slower pace and the promise of making a home in Kentucky. Gladys pursued her passion for education at the University of Kentucky, ultimately earning her PhD in Educational Psychology. She went on to serve for many years as an academic advisor at UK, where she became known for her empathy, encouragement, and ability to connect with students. Her dedication was recognized with the Outstanding Advisor Award in 1995.

Faith was also at the heart of her life. A longtime member of Christ the King Catholic Church, she served several years as Director of Religious Education, guiding and mentoring countless high school students. She was a wise listener, an avid reader (never without a stack of books), and could often be found in her beloved sunroom working on a NYTimes crossword puzzle. She loved nothing more than a lively discussion, whether at Book Club, at the Newman Center, or around the family table. She shared her love of reading with her grandchildren, often taking them to the bookstore on their birthdays.

Gladys also enjoyed music. She was an accomplished piano player and fan of the big band sounds and of course Frank Sinatra. She had a quick wit, a sharp mind, and a generous heart. Her advice was thoughtful, her laughter warm, and her love for her family steadfast.

Gladys lived with curiosity, compassion, and conviction. She believed in the power of education, the importance of listening, and the joy of family. Her legacy will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

Visitation will be held Monday, October 20, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Lexington, Kentucky, followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. In her honor feel free to donate to the Alzheimer's Association at ALZ.org, or her favorite local charity, the Catholic Action Center in Lexington KY, catholicactioncenter.net.