Jerry Garber Craddock

Jerry Garber Craddock, 93 years old, of Lynchburg, VA, passed away peacefully at Westminster Canterbury on January 17, 2025.

Born June 15, 1931, in Charlotte County VA, Jerry was the daughter of the late Annie Lee and Johnny Willet and the wife of the late Claiborne (Claybo) Watkins Craddock. She was an award-winning watercolor artist and had her paintings displayed all over the United States, many of them at Westminster Canterbury. 

Jerry loved Smith Mountain Lake and taking trips on the pontoon boat with Claybo and her grandchildren, who loved her dearly, and enjoyed summer vacations, painting and cooking with her.

After Claybo passed, she met a great friend, Conrad Frey, and the family is so thankful for his love and care for Jerry. They enjoyed their time together painting and spending time at WC.

Jerry was well known for her incredible smile, her sense of humor and her ability to befriend anyone.

Jerry was preceded in death by Spooky the dog of Lynchburg, VA, and daughter Linda Lee Forehand of Zirconia, NC. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Forehand Howard of Lynchburg, VA, and grandchildren, Max (Brooke) of Broomfield, CO, Brandon (Mirian) of Richmond, VA and Ryan (Caralyn) of Hilton Head, SC, as well as four great grandchildren, Nolan, Claire, Harper, and Alex. She is also survived by her sister Myra Sellers and nephews Erik and Wellyn.

A memorial service will be conducted in the garden at First Presbyterian Church, Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11AM with a reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the EC Glass scholarship fund in Jerry’s first cousin Johnny Palmer’s name.

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