Annette Gwaltney Shrader (Annie), 62, of Roanoke, gained her eternal reward on Monday, October 24, 2016. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends who watched her fight for over 40 years against cancer and various illnesses that afflicted her physical body but never her loving, Christian spirit.

She was born on April 20, 1954 and grew up in the Salem community, where she was a faithful member of the West Side Church of Christ. She was the proud daughter of Pat Gwaltney (who received her angel wings just several short weeks ago) and Charlie Gwaltney, of Salem. She is survived by her loving, devoted and patient husband, James "Lyn" Shrader, of Roanoke; who cared for her their entire married life. She leaves behind a son, Josh Shrader, of Roanoke; her daughter and son-in-law, Dee and James Reynolds, of Roanoke; and her precious, adoring and special granddaughter, Aleyna House. She is also survived by her sister, Charlene Guard and her husband, Danny, of Salem; her nephews, Caleb and Luke Guard, and their families; and countless family members, friends, special neighbors and church family whom she loved and thought of daily. Despite her illnesses and physical limitations, she always thought about others and was the true example of a Christian woman, ALWAYS letting her light shine to others, no matter how bad the circumstance. Annie fought so hard until the very end, and found solace in saying goodbye to those she loved in her final days and having a part in her own funeral arrangements.

To honor her wishes, the family will receive friends on Friday, October 28, 2016 from 5-8 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son in Salem. A funeral service celebrating her extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 11 a.m. at the West Side Church of Christ in Salem. Interment will follow at the Sherwood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, Annie asked that memorial contributions be made to the Primary Education Program at the West Side Church of Christ (where she taught four and five year old Bible classes faithfully for many years), 1705 Starview Drive, Salem, Va. 24153. Funeral arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son, Salem, Va.