Daniel "Danny" Fetzer Strader

Daniel “Danny” Fetzer Strader, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 19, 2026.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Mount Carmel Global Methodist Church with Rev. Tim James officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church and other times at the family home.

Danny was born in Rockingham County to the late Dewy Spencer Strader and Lillian Chaney Strader. Danny retired from the Rockingham County Sheriff’s department after 36 years of service. He will forever be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his hardworking nature, and the strength, kindness, and loyalty he showed throughout his life. He was a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures, whether spending time outdoors, working with his hands, or simply being surrounded by those he loved.

To his family, he was so much more than words could ever express. He was a source of strength, a steady presence through life's challenges, and a beautiful example of unconditional love. His greatest legacy will not be measured by the things he built or the work he accomplished, but by the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he so freely gave.

Although his absence will be felt beyond measure, the memories he created and the love he leaves behind will remain in the hearts of his family for generations to come.

A life well lived, a man deeply loved, who will be greatly missed and will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who love him.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his children, Daniel Scott Strader, and John Richard Dillard Jr.; sister, Shelby Strader Guill; brothers, Dewy Jr. Strader, Alvis, Raeford and Bobby Strader.

Danny is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Virginia Mae Strader; children, Dana Strader (Todd); Lisa Davis; sister, Shirley Hill; grandchildren, Amanda Strader (Mark), Bridgett Barton (Dylan), Samantha Crowder (Robert Carter), Chris Davis, Jonathan Davis (Alex), Doug Ellison Jr., Clay Dillard, Gracie Dillard, Kalynn Evans (Josh), Jared Dillard (Ali); special daughter in law, Michelle Dillard; special niece, Pam Eanes; 15 great grandchildren, and a large and loving group of extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt Carmel Global Methodist Church and Ancora Compassionate Care.