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Arthur L. Prensky, MD, a professor emeritus of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 94 years old. Throughout his 45-year tenure, Prensky emerged as a global expert in metabolic disorders, headaches, and neurodevelopment.
“Arthur was one of the most brilliant intellects in neurology,” remarked Jin-Moo Lee, MD, PhD, the Andrew B. & Gretchen P. Jones Professor and chair of the Department of Neurology at WashU Medicine. “He was a living legend — a skilled clinician who mentored countless pediatric neurologists. His impact can be observed in programs and practices around the globe.”
Prensky completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University in 1951 and obtained his medical degree from New York University. Serving as a captain in the U.S. Air Force, he acted as an adviser to the surgeon general on medical flight-related issues. He subsequently finished his postgraduate training at Massachusetts General Hospital before taking on the role of instructor in the Department of Neurology at Harvard Medical School. He joined WashU Medicine in 1967 as an assistant professor.
A devoted leader, clinician, and researcher, Prensky was the inaugural Allen P. and Josephine B. Green Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics at WashU Medicine. He directed the Division of Pediatric Neurology at St. Louis Children’s Hospital from 1974 to 1984 and presided over the Child Neurology Society from 1979 to 1980. After retiring in 2000, he returned to St. Louis Children’s Hospital in 2002 to offer inpatient care.
Prensky is survived by his brother, Simon Prensky, and his sister-in-law, Suzanne. He was the cherished husband of the late Vivian Prensky and the late Sheila Prensky.
Memorial donations may be directed to the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation.
For further information, visit the WashU Medicine website.
The article Arthur L. Prensky, professor emeritus of neurology, 94 was originally published on The Source.
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