Garnet Belle Rader

Garnet Belle Rader, a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted advocate for animal welfare, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at her home in Babcock Ranch, Florida. She was born on October 15, 1935, in Lancaster, Ohio, to Edward Larabee and Opal Belle Pennell. Her life spanned nearly ninety years, filled with love, compassion, and a deep commitment to the causes she held dear.

Garnet was the proud mother to her son, Kemp Dennis Rader with his husband, Thomas Higgins, and her daughter, Cynthia Belle Phillips with her late husband, Stephen Darling. Her children were a source of endless joy and pride. Her legacy continues through her grandson, Jonathan Wayne Phillips with his wife, Kimberly Phillips, as well as her great-granddaughter, Hayley Autumn Phillips, who brought light to her later years.

Garnet's professional journey as a physical therapist allowed her to provide care and support to many individuals throughout her career in the healthcare industry. Her compassionate nature and dedication to helping others extended beyond her professional life, as she was a nurturing mother who balanced a demanding career with raising her two children.

A fervent animal lover, Garnet was known for her unwavering devotion to cats, fostering countless strays over the years. She opened her heart and home to each one, ensuring they found a safe and loving environment. Her advocacy for animals was a defining part of her life. She was also a strong believer in women's rights, passionately supporting equality and justice.

In her leisure time, Garnet found joy in reading and was an ardent fan of the Green Bay Packers, proudly supporting her team through thick and thin. She had a vibrant spirit and a zest for life that inspired those around her.

Garnet is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Junior Rader, her foster mother, Helen Rauh, and her siblings: sister Esther Crossley, brother Delbert D. Larabee, and sisters Joyce Barker and Lorraine Polizzi. Their memories remained a cherished part of her life, and their love shaped the remarkable person she became.

As we remember Garnet, we celebrate her unwavering kindness, her advocacy for the voiceless, and her deep love for her family. Though she has left this world, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Garnet's memory to local animal shelters, reflecting her lifelong passion.

Garnet Belle Rader will forever be remembered for her gentle heart, her tireless dedication to the welfare of others, and her enduring love for her family, friends and animals. She touched many lives and will be dearly missed.