Obituary of Jerald Joseph Schaefer

Jerald J. Schaefer, 95, of Roanoke/Salem, passed away Thursday, December 17, 2020. Jerry proudly served in the US Navy during WWII aboard the destroyer USS The Sullivans and worked as a Quartermaster on the bridge in navigation. He received 9 major battle stars for the battles he and his shipmates fought in, in the Pacific Theater, along with 2 more stars on his Philippines Liberation Ribbon. He loved fishing and family picnics at the Peaks of Otter and Mabry Mill on the Parkway. He also loved planting and growing things, especially peonies.

Jerry was predeceased by his wife Jean Schafer and son Jerry John Schaefer. He is survived by his son Mark Schaefer (Sandy), sister Flora Bea Stratus, Granddaughters Kerry McGraw and Megan Schaefer and numerous nieces and nephews scattered about the US.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jerry’s name to St James Episcopal Church, 4515 Delray St. Roanoke, VA 24012 or the D-Day War Memorial.

A heartfelt thank you to family, friends and loved ones, our St James Church family and the wonderful people at Salem Terrace Assisted Living and Good Samaritan Hospice. The love, kindness and care that you all extended Mom, Dad and our family will always be remembered. You all have been a blessing to our family.Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home. (540)366-0707.