Jerry Lee Shrader

Jerry Lee Shrader, born on Flag Day, June 14, 1947, passed peacefully into his eternal home on Sunday, May 25, 2025, just weeks before his 78th birthday.  A proud veteran, devoted father, and humble man of quiet strength, Jerry’s life was marked by service, loyalty, and love.

From 1966 to 1969, Jerry served his country with honor in the United States Army, including tours in Germany during a time of great global tension, receiving a National Defense Service Medal and a Marksman Medal.  His military service was a point of deep pride, and he carried those values of duty and resilience throughout his life.  He will be laid to rest with full military honors in recognition of that service.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen Shrader; son, Kenny Varble; mother, Mamie Shrader; father, Palmer Shrader; step-mother, Virginia Shrader; baby brother, Curtis Lynn Shrader; and his older brother, James Robert Shrader.  Though their absence brought sorrow, Jerry held fast to their memory with the same quiet devotion that defined his character.

He is survived by his four loving daughters, Sabrina Shrader, Mamie Ayers (Keith), Yvonne Coffey (Chris Ball), and Ashley Ringley (Aaron); grandchildren, Gene Ayers (Christy), Kalli Mullins (Dylan), Jake Varble (Ashley), Rubin Coffey III “Trey”, Jerry Ayers (Cierra Hardy), Jadeyn Alexander (Harley Baisden), Aaron Ayers, Jacob Ayers, Trinity Dill, Drake Coffey, Jaxon Alexander, Cy Coffey, Trinity, Christopher, and Mason Bennett; great-grandchildren, Noah Ayers, Wrenley Baisden, Levi, Leyton, Lane and Kaisley Mullins, Addison and Abby Varble; brothers, Billy Joe Shrader (Marjorie), and David Morris (Donna); sisters, Donna Derry, Diane Cobble (B.J.), Shirley Louis; and his most favorite fur companion, Izzy; close friend/grandson, Blake Sattler; and close friend/daughters, Ginger Hawk, and Samantha Miracle, to them, he was more than a father, grandfather and brother – he was a steady hand, a quiet encourager, and a deep well of unconditional love.  His legacy lives on in their lives, their hearts, and the values he instilled in them.

Jerry will be remembered for his humility, his steadfast spirit, and the quiet ways he showed his love—never boastful, but always constant.  Those who knew him will remember his calming presence, his deep integrity, and the quiet dignity with which he moved through life.

“A hero is someone who has given his life to something bigger than himself.” –Joseph Campbell “Well done, good and faithful servant … Enter into the joy of your Lord.” –Matthew 25:21.

Special thank you to Ft. Sanders Regional, Avenue Homecare, and special CNA, Katherine, Synergy Home Care, and special care giver, Erica Hernandez.

The family will receive friends Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 5 – 7 P.M. in the chapel of Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 P.M.  Military/graveside services will be Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at McKinney Cemetery in Rogersville, TN.

Arrangements by Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home.

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