SJS Alumni Spotlight – Joe Prather

SJS Alumnus 1953-1956 

At Saint James Catholic School, Joe Prather learned the values that served as a solid foundation throughout his life.

“My years at SJS were some of the very best of my life,” Prather said. “I’ve enjoyed reflecting back on the excellent teachers I had, the lifelong friends I made and the wonderful memories of my time there.”

Prather attend SJS from 1953 to 1956. An active member of Saint James Catholic Church, Prather is a retired banker, realtor and auctioneer; served as a Kentucky State Senator, Secretary of the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet and Secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet; and now serves as chairman of the Hardin Memorial Health Foundation Board of Directors and a  member, Elizabethtown-Hardin County Industrial Foundation Board of Directors.

Prather’s favorite teacher was Sr. Mary Miguel, Sister of Loretto, he said.

“I had a lot to learn going into my years at SJS,” he said. “She was always available after school and on Saturdays to work with me and offer me guidance.”

Prather is married to Jennie Brown Prather. They have five children and nine grandchildren.