In the quiet of Annville, Pennsylvania, on June 6th, 2023, Theodosia Lucille Pae, known to many as “Theo,” was called home. It was a day for reflection and remembrance, marking the end of a legacy steeped in love and dedication.
Born on May 16th, 1930, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to the caring arms of Jonas Ulmont Rudy and Esther Elizabeth Shaffer, Theo lived a life of vibrant devotion and indelible service.
She was a devoted wife to the late Walter E. Pae Sr., and mother to four treasured children, Walter E. Pae Jr., Sherry Lee Pae, Sally Ann Stricker, and Kerry Alan Pae. She also took pride in being a grandmother to David Pae, Terra Reider, Derek Pae, Sara Pae, Connor Pae, Abigail Pae, and Leland Weyant, and having nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Theo’s legacy was one of grace and selflessness. Her tenderness and nurturing touch left an unmistakable mark on the hearts of those who knew her. During her earlier years, Theo’s heart was firmly set on raising her children, fulfilling the role of a mother with gentle patience and boundless love. Her marriage to Walter E. Pae Sr. right out of high school would lead her to new endeavors in 1967, as she co-owned Cutter’s Cafe in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, until 1977. After selling the cafe, she and her husband were involved in her son’s business, Kerry Pae Auctioneers. Despite her later years’ autoimmune illness, which required intense, prolonged therapy for her to recover fully, she had a constant positive outlook, even to the day she passed on.
Theo’s impact was felt beyond the walls of her home. She had been elected a member of the Central Dauphin School District School Board, founded the first Little League baseball team in Dauphin Borough, and served as an election official there as well. She was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Dauphin.
Theo was a woman of many talents and interests. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, and solving word and number puzzles in her free time. These hobbies brought joy and nourishment to those around her. Her heart was full of warmth and compassion, and she leaves behind memories that will be cherished by those who knew her. As the sun sets on this chapter of Theo’s life, her memory will live on through her family and friends who were blessed to have her in their lives.
A private memorial service will be held at the gravesite at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.
The world is a better place for having known her.
