Sandra Ketchum Strader
Sandra Ketchum Strader, 76, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Sandra was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on February 7, 1950 to the late Pauline Juanita Gauldin Ketchum and the late Bud Nyle Ketchum. She is survived by her loving husband of many years, Mr. Larry David Strader.
Sandra was of the Christian Faith. She worked for many years as a LPN/Patient Advocate at SOVAH Health Hospital previous to her retirement. She loved her nursing years and the doctors she worked for. Sandra was an active member of the Danville Shag Club for many years. She was an Icon of the Association of Carolina Shag Club and was inducted into the Virginia Shaggers Hall of Fame. She was a former member of Beta Sigma Phi. She helped many children in the Mt. Hermon Elementary community through the Booster Club and her cheerleading sponsorship.
In addition to her loving husband, Sandra is survived by a daughter; Laurie Ann Strader Merricks of Dry Fork, VA; a son; David “Scott” Strader of Hurt, VA; a sister; Diane K. Dudley and husband Jerry C. Dudley; three grandchildren; Jonathan Edward Merricks (Kelly), Jacob Thomas Merricks, and Lindsay Alexandra Strader; a great grandchild; Micah William Merricks, and another soon to be baby girl on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Sandra was predeceased by two brothers; Burl Nyle Ketchum and Paul Michael Ketchum, and sister; Kathleen Ann Ketchum.
The family request, that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Danville/Pittsylvania County Cancer Association at 223 Riverview Drive, Suite J., Danville, VA 24541 or Mt. Hermon Fire and Rescue, 4268 Franklin Turnpike, Danville, VA 24540.
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 2:00pm at Norris Funeral Services, Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA with Pastor David R. Turbyfill officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Burial Park. A visitation will be held on the same day just prior to the service from 1-2:00pm, also at Norris Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA. At other times, the family will receive friends at the residence.
Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory, Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA is respectfully serving the Strader Family. Online condolences may be made at www.norrisfuneral.com.
