Lenore Helen Perring Rothacker passed peacefully in Afton, Virginia, on January 18, 2026, at the age of 94. She was born on October 10, 1931, in Elmhurst, Illinois.

Lenore graduated from York High School in Elmhurst, Illinois, and built a long and accomplished working life. She was employed as an administrative assistant in the Physics Department at the University of Virginia before spending many years with AAA Virginia in membership sales. There, she became known for her determination and keen understanding of her work. No matter how often the bonus structure changed, Lenore studied it carefully and always found a way to meet — and exceed — every goal. Her exceptional success earned her recognition in an article titled “Just One More,” a testament to her perseverance and drive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lenore Helen Freitag Perring; her beloved twin sister, Florence Perring Hoopmann; and her former husband, Eugene Rothacker, whom she met while dancing at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago — a cherished story she carried throughout her life.

Lenore is survived by her children, Florence Marie Rothacker and William Otto Rothacker; her grandchildren, Gabrielle Alexandra Rothacker (“Gabby”), Nicolai Wolfgang Rothacker, and Melissa Rothacker; her great-grandchildren, Oliver Morrick Armstrong and Milo Rothacker; and her nephew, Richard Hoopmann, and his family.

While Lenore would say she had no hobbies, she took genuine joy in finding a good sale. She was also a natural teacher of life’s practical lessons, reminding her children, grandchildren, and even their friends learning to drive never to let impatient drivers push them into a turn before they were ready — but once they were ready, to give it the gas and go with confidence. She also firmly believed that when packing for any trip, one should always bring a bathing suit, because you never know when you might encounter a pool.

A devoted lover of animals, Lenore cherished her many beloved fur babies, all of whom passed before her. It is comforting to imagine them now joyfully welcoming her at the Rainbow Bridge.

Lenore’s life was defined by resilience, practicality, and quiet wisdom shared generously with those around her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. As she so often reminded those she loved, “Smile — it will make them wonder what you’re up to.”

A service to honor Lenore’s life may be announced at a later date.

An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com

Compassionate Cremation Service of Ruckersville, VA is handling the arrangements.