Gladys Ruth Bertram

Gladys “Ruth” Bertram, age 87 of Monticello, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at her daughter and son in law’s home in Somerset, Kentucky. She had been residing with John and Margaret there since her diagnosis with Alzheimer’s in the summer of 2017.

Ruth was born on February 17, 1932 in Smiths Bottom (Russell County), Kentucky to the late James Oscar Decker and Alta Mae (Garrett) Decker.

She was united in marriage to the late Frank F. Bertram on December 1, 1954 in Monticello, Kentucky where they lived and raised their four children.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and one son, Terry B. Bertram of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky; and seven of her brothers, Woodrow Decker, Paul (Marie) Decker, Wendell Decker, Randall Decker and Ralph Decker; and her one sister, Velma (Martin) Gehring.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory two sons of Monticello, Larry (Peggy Dishman) Bertram and Gary (Debbie Sexton) Bertram; on daughter, Margaret Ramsey (John B.) Simkins of Somerset; and two brothers in Indianapolis, Indiana, Billy (Nancy) Decker and Carl (Ginny) Decker. Ruth is also survived by five grandchildren who adored her, Kimberly (Dwight) Buie, Science Hill; Rusty Bertram, Somerset, Janet (Jason) Elam, Monticello; Christopher (Marisa) Ramesy, Russell Springs, Tera Bertram, Elizabethtown; and her great grandchildren, Madasyn French, Monticello; Cade, Jack & Abby Ramsey, Russell Springs; Natalie Elam, Monticello; and Bryson & Korbyn Goff, Science Hill.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the family of Pete Burke who lovingly looked after Momma the entire time they were neighbors in Monticello. No one could have done better! And to our special friend (and the most loving caregiver) Pam Hickman who became a part of our family. She was with us from the first step of Momma’s journey and to the very last. I know they love our Momma just as much as we do. We would also like to thank both Dr. Robert Drake & his team and the Hospice of Lake Cumberland. They were truly an answer to our prayers. Thank you to each of you who made our Momma’s life so much better.

Per Momma’s wishes, a small private memorial service will be held in Monticello later this week.