Bonnie J. Pryor

Bonnie J. Pryor, age 90, passed away on September 4, 2024, in Saint Paul, MN. Born on January 19, 1934, in Omaha, NE, Bonnie dedicated her life to Catholic education, her parish community and her family.

Bonnie was a lifelong educator and served as a teacher and principal at Saint Cecilia's Grade School for over five decades. She was the first lay principal in the Archdiocese of Omaha and over the years held prestigious positions at the NCEA including Vice-chair, Secretary and President. Her outstanding contributions to education were recognized with numerous awards, including the National Distinguished Principal Award from the U.S. Department of Education in 1985, and being named as one of America's most influential people in Catholic education in 1987.

Bonnie was not only a dedicated educator but also a committed member of her community, actively participating at Saint Cecilia's Cathedral. Her life was marked by her kindness, generosity, and a deep commitment to her faith and the educational institution she cherished. She is remembered by many misbehaving students and their parents for "Saturday school" attendance. She is less well known for once taking 12 students in her Volkswagen Beetle to a local swimming location. She was a mentor to countless teachers and principals in Omaha. She was loved and respected by many.

Bonnie delighted in her family, especially her three grandchildren who have cherished memories of their time with "Nanny." She loved attending their various sporting events and musical performances.

She is survived by her son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Jackie; siblings, Mary Beth (Sr. Duchesne) and Maddy; and grandchildren, Matthew (Haley), John (Michelle), and Kate. Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John; her parents, Charles and Loretta Maxwell; and brothers, Chuck, Marty, Larry, and John.

VISITATION begins Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5 p.m. at John A. Gentleman, 72nd Street Chapel, in Omaha, NE, with a WAKE SERVICE at 7 p.m. VISITATION: Friday, Sept. 13th, beginning at 5:00PM at the 72nd Street Chapel with a WAKE SERVICE at 7:00PM.       

 To view the Wake Service online go to: https://heartstreaming.link/bonnie-j-pryor-wake. 

The MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at Saint Cecilia's Cathedral, Omaha, NE.     

To view the Funeral Service online go to:  https://www.youtube.com/@saintceciliacathedralomaha6523/streams 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Saint Cecilia's Grade School in memory of Bonnie J. Pryor.   

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the wonderful care providers at Lexington Landing in Saint Paul, MN, where Bonnie spent her final years. 

John A. Gentleman Mortuaries and Crematory

1010 North 72nd Street

Omaha,  Nebraska 68114

402-391-1664

www.johnagentleman.com