Geraldine Thornton Shaver, 87, of Salem, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, December 23, 2016.

She was born on Wednesday, August 14, 1929 in Dayton, Ohio, but spent her youth between Georgia and Virginia. She graduated from Montvale High School. As a homemaker, she was a devoted wife and mother, and also worked at Kress department store and Sears. Her church membership was held at Calvary United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School and worked with Vacation Bible School and many building committees. Her favorite place to visit was the beach.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis E. Shaver; son, John A. Shaver; parents, Ira and Garnette Thornton; brother, Ivan Thornton; and sister, Alice Guy.

Her surviving family includes her daughter, Caren Shaver Saunders; son-in-law, Clinton A. Saunders; grandchildren, Christopher Shaver and Brittany Saunders; and several nieces and nephews.

The family extends sincere thanks to Dr. Bonnie Culkin as well as the many neighbors, friends, and family who have blessed Geraldine’s life.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at Calvary United Methodist Church in Salem. A period of visitation will take place during the hour prior. Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made to the church at 845 Hemlock Road in Salem, Va. 24153. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.