Patricia Ann Trader

Patricia Ann Trader, 70, of Montross, VA passed away peacefully on the morning of January 7, 2025, after a brave battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother and grandmother, as well as a source of joy and friendship to many in the community. Her kindness and love was shared with all who knew her.
Pat was born in Baltimore Maryland on July 28, 1954, to the late Lavern George Schaeffer, Sr. and the late Rose Ruth Chalkley Schaeffer. After meeting the love of her life, Thomas Richard Trader, Sr., they wed and enjoyed 32 years of marriage before Tom was called home to the Lord in April of 2007. As a valued instructional assistant, Pat committed her life to helping the children of Charles County Public Schools for 34 years in Charles County, MD before retiring to care for her grandchildren near her home in Montross, Va.
Pat will be deeply missed by her family. She is survived by her loving sons, Thomas Richard Trader, Jr. (Fiancé, Sarah Lynn Emery) and Christopher George Trader (Wife, Tammy Breese Trader). Pat was the most loving Gaga to her granddaughters, Riley LeighAnn Trader and Delaney Alexandra Trader; and Sarah's daughters Aubree and Addison; her sister, Sandra Lee Rose (Jonathan Leroy Rose) of Montross; her brother Lavern George Schaeffer, Jr. of Baltimore; her nieces, nephews; and many dear friends and colleagues.
Pat worked for Charles County Public Schools as a teacher's aide in grades Pre-K through 3rd. She loved children and never missed an opportunity to support or aid a young person in need. Pat and Tom were always supporting children's causes such as Toys for Tots. It was important to them that every child had a good Christmas and knew the love of the season. Pat and Tom cherished giving to others, whatever the need may be. An avid hockey fan, Pat was a season ticket holder for Richmond Renegades hockey team and never missed a home game. Pat loved spending time with her family and especially her granddaughters. Pat enjoyed trips to Kings Dominion and Ocean City, Maryland with her family. She treasured the chance to go on an adventure, whether it be local or long distance – any place to create lasting memories with those she loved. Her favorite was walking up and down the boardwalk and playing with the grandkids at the arcade and on the beach.
A Celebration of Pat's Life will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the Welch Funeral Home Montross Chapel. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service at the funeral home; from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Following the service there will be a reception at the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department.