Jennifer Suzanne Shrader, born on May 1, 1972, in the charming hills of Bluefield, West Virginia, and departed for her next adventure on April 18, 2025, in Portsmouth, Virginia, at the youthful age of 52. She left behind a trail of love, laughter, and just a touch of chaos, as any good homemaker-turned-notary-public should.
Jennifer was a woman who wore many hats and wore them all with flair. As a homemaker, she ruled her domain with an iron spatula and a heart of gold. As a notary public, she stamped her approval (or disapproval) on life’s important documents with the seriousness only she could muster.
She was a woman with a giving heart, known for organizing food banks and Toys-for-Tots drives, often mistaken for Ms. Claus during the holiday season. Her tireless efforts to secure cross arms for a dangerous railroad crossing near her home will always be remembered by those who can now cross safely, although some say she just wanted fewer delays on her way to the grocery store.
An academic enthusiast, Jennifer studied Criminal Justice with the fervor of a TV detective. She earned her Associate degree from Tidewater Community College and a Bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University, coming tantalizingly close to a Master’s degree at Regent University—just one credit shy, but who really needs a degree when you’ve already mastered life anyway?
Jennifer was preceded in the great beyond by her father, Ronald Peery, and her brother, Steve Peery, who are no doubt welcoming her with open arms and perhaps a few playful jabs.
Left to carry on Jennifer’s legacy are her husband, Lewis “Poo” Shrader, whose nickname she’ll undoubtedly tease him about forevermore; her daughter, Holly (TJ Allen); her son, Bubba (Jessica Allen); and her beloved grandchildren, Monk, Buddah, Waylon, Kace, and Scarly, who were always more than willing to be spoiled rotten.
Her mother, Linda Kidd (Harold), survives her, undoubtedly proud of everything her daughter accomplished.
The family plans to hold a celebration of life in Jennifer’s honor in the near future—a day sure to be filled with laughter, love, and maybe a few too many snacks. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to continue her giving legacy by clicking the Donate button below.
Jennifer Suzanne Shrader lived a life full of love, laughter, and service, a testament that a heart full of compassion and a dash of wit can make even the ordinary extraordinary.
