Kathryn “Kathy” Luke

August 10, 1939 – September 21, 2026

Kathy Luke passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, due to age and declining health on September 21, 2026. She lived an active, happy, generous life. She was born to Thomas Loren and Martha Bernice Froisland Luke on August 10, 1939 in Provo, Utah, but moved with her family to Lynwood, California when Kathy was fourteen.

Kathy was an outstanding student, earning the honor of Salutatorian upon graduation from Lynwood High School. She continued her education at Brigham Young University, with a major in Elementary Education/Special Education. After graduation, she returned to Lynwood, where she was named Outstanding Young Educator in her school district.

Kathy interrupted her teaching career to serve in the Central British Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). She loved the English people and the experience of serving them. Service defined Kathy’s life. She suffered when she saw the sufferings of others, and she took action to bind up their wounds or better their lives. Her service mentality was legendary in her work and in her care for family, friends, and neighbors. She also took great pleasure in hosting regular family dinners and celebrations, and she prized each individual family relationship.

Upon returning from her British mission, she moved to Utah where she taught Special Education at Sunset View Elementary in the Provo City School District. While teaching, she continued her own education and received an M.Ed degree in School Administration from BYU.

Kathy was elected Provo Education Association President and represented teachers in contract negotiations. During that time, she was appointed principal at Provost Elementary for three years and then became Director of Elementary Education for the Provo City School District. She served for many years as a highly effective leader in curriculum development. Her calming influence helped to resolve perplexing issues and her expertise and care provided excellent support to teachers. She retired after 30 years of dedicated service.

Ever devoted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kathy served in many callings, including Primary President when she was in her seventies. She charmed children in the classroom and in church with her happy disposition, warm smile, focused lessons, and with her use of music.

Kathy served for eight years on the LDS Young Women General Board and, later, for another few years on the Sunday School General Board. In 2002-2004, Kathy and her lifetime friend, Carolyn, served a mission together in the Wellington New Zealand Mission, where they became a great strength to the people and loved them all. In their sixties, the two walked a portion of the Mormon Pioneer Trail as part of the 150-year re-enactment of the pioneer trek. They also served as trainers for the Latter-day Saint volunteers for the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Kathy enjoyed helping others, serving them, and sharing her warmth wherever she went. It was her quiet act of love. To know Kathy was to love her. It was only natural to return love to one who loved so generously herself.

Kathy was preceded in death by her sister Nancy Ann (Thomas E.) Hughes, and her brother Gary Leon (Shirley) Luke. She leaves behind her brother Craig (Kasey) Luke, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own. She also leaves behind Carolyn Rasmus, her lifetime friend. A funeral will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with a prior viewing from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the LDS Stake Center at 1000 Main St., Orem, Utah. There is also a viewing on Friday, September 25, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Walker Sanderson Mortuary at 646 E. 800 North, Orem, Utah. Interment will be at the Orem City Cemetery.

Kathy and Carolyn’s families wish to express sincere appreciation to the members of the Timpanogos Park Second Ward for their daily service and extraordinary kindness. They also wish to thank Bristol Hospice for their professional and tender care.