Dee Ann Marie Rader, beloved wife of Robert Rader devoted mother to Danielle and Cristi Rader, cherished Oma to Skyler and Louis, and loving sister to Dannie (Tiffany) White passed away on Sunday, September 6th, 2026.
Before she became our mom, she was a young woman with a spirit all her own. Daughter to Dannie and Sandra White, big sister to Dano, Honor Student and Miss Ohio High School Majorette. She carried that same energy, determination, and joy throughout her life. She went on to marry the love of her life and together they shared more than 40 years of marriage, building a life centered around family, friendship, and the moments that mattered most.
She dedicated more than 30 years of service as a civilian employee of the U.S. Army, providing dedicated support to Military Families, a career reflecting her commitment and strength. After retiring, she and Rob embraced a new chapter—traveling, enjoying life together, and making regular trips to Charlotte to spend precious time with their daughters and grandchildren.
Throughout her life, she was blessed by a remarkable community of friends and family who stood beside her, supported her, and loved her deeply. She had a rare ability to make people feel seen and cared for. Ask anyone who really knew her, and they will have a story where she went above and beyond to help or be there for them. Kindness came naturally to her. Empathy guided her and she never seemed to run out of room in her heart for the people around her.
She was the heartbeat of our family—the steady rhythm that kept us connected, grounded, and moving forward. Her presence brought a sense of comfort and belonging that we may not have fully appreciated until now.
As we think about the life we shared with her, “The Dance” by Garth Brooks reminds us of something profound: even if we had known how the story would end, we would never choose to change the dance.
We would choose every laugh. Every hug. Every family gathering. Every road trip. Every holiday. Every ordinary moment that became special simply because she was there.
We would choose it all again.
Her legacy will live on not only in the memories she left behind, but in the way she taught us to love, to show kindness, and to have empathy for others. Most of all, it will live on through her girls, who will carry her heart, her strength, and her love forward.
And we will carry her with us, always.
Based on her wishes, the family is planning to Celebrate her Life with a “Party” maybe two, which will be announced at a later date.
