Gail Antoinette Stapert

Gail Antoinette Stapert, 85, of Goode, Virginia, departed this life peacefully on Saturday, October 5, 2024, with her family by her side. She was the cherished wife of the late Charles Edward Stapert and daughter of the late William and Mildred Schaefer. Gail was also preceded in death by her brother, William Andrew Schaefer.

Gail was born on June 21, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Taft High School and Cornell College, where she was a member of the Alpha Sigma Pi sorority. She enjoyed teaching elementary art and later working in human resources, but her greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother.

Gail had a zest for life that was reflected in her many interests. She enjoyed swimming, yoga, and walks with treasured friends and dogs. More recently, she participated in the Rock Steady Boxing program, designed for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Gail was also an avid traveler, visiting all 50 states and numerous countries. She lived adventurously, trying skydiving, interacting with elephants in Thailand, and riding roller coasters – even braving the tallest one in the world. Her competitive spirit shone through in her love of card games and bowling. Gail deeply appreciated art and beauty, delighting in painting and watching nature from her porch.

Gail was known for her fun, kindhearted, and easygoing personality. She loved animals, valued her friendships and took great pleasure in hosting Sunday dinners with family. As a member of Blue Ridge Community Church, she deepened her faith and found a close circle of dear friends.

Gail is survived by her children, Ronald Kleinsmith, Jr., John Kleinsmith (Sandra Porter), and Deborah Hendrickson (Gary Morris); grandchildren, Natalie and John Hendrickson; sister, Jane Behnke; stepsons, Keith Snowden (Janell) and Darrin Stapert (Sharon); step-grandsons, Joshua Snowden (Tessa), Jacob and David Stapert; and many nieces and nephews, to whom she was a favorite aunt.

A celebration of Gail’s life will be held on November 16, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Blue Ridge Community Church in Forest, VA. In honor of Gail, please consider donating to:

YMCA of Central Virginia 

Attn: Rock Steady Boxing-Parkinson's Program 

1309 Church Street

Lynchburg, VA 24504

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.