Dorothy Johanna Shaner

Dorothy Johanna Shaner, age 99, was called home by her heavenly Father on July 16, 2025 and is resting in the arms of Jesus. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 61 years, Thornhill (Joe), her son Roger, her daughter Rebecca, her grandson, Justin, and many other family members. 

She is survived by her daughters, Christinia Wilson (Randall) and Victoria Reese (Glenn), grandchildren Edwina Word (Mark), Meredith Sutton (Darrell) and Ryan Reese (Kristin), in addition to six great grandchildren.

Dorothy's happy place was her home. She enjoyed her yard, her neighbors, her trips to local businesses, and her quiet time on her back porch. A highlight of her week was bingo with the Amherst County Recreation Bingo Bango Gang led by Julie Lerner. She loved her Temple Baptist Church family and Sundays were reserved for worship. She was our chemist cook, always concocting her own yummy recipes. Her mantra to her grandchildren was "you save some and you spend some" and "waste not, want not". She lived her life under her own advice.

Dorothy drove a school bus for Amherst County for several years. She loved seeing "her bus children" grown up and found joy when one singled her out with "I remember when stories". She also worked at General Electric for a time and spoke fondly of the many friends she made while working there. After retirement, Dorothy and Joe together traveled with the Ageless Wonders and enjoyed their time with this group.

The last several years her very strong and healthy body surrendered to the effects of aging. She had assistance from wonderful Christian caregivers. There are too many to name all, but a very special thank you to her devoted friend and companion, Mary Jones.

She taught us much in her later years. Her strength, her perseverance, patience, and her acceptance of what she could not change. As she did with everything in life, she gave it her all.

She is greatly loved by her family. We are at peace and know we will all be reunited in heaven.

Memorial remembrances may be made to Temple Baptist Church, Madison Heights or Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Madison Heights.

Services will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 11 AM at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg. A visitation will be one hour prior. Interment will be at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.