Shirley Chernitzer

Chesapeake – Shirley B. Chernitzer, 89, of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully with family at her side on September 18, 2026.
She was born May 24, 1937, in Norfolk, Virginia, and remained a lifelong Virginian.

A 1955 graduate of Maury High School in Norfolk, Shirley dedicated her working life to serving in local schools. She worked with special needs children at Little Creek Primary School as well as served as a library assistant at Booker T. Washington High School. Shirley later worked as an administrative assistant at Lake Taylor Middle School and Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs (SECEP). She retired in 1999. Her work in education inspired two generations of educators in the family.

Most of all, she cherished her role as a wife, mother, “Meemee,” and “Great Meemee.” Her family was the center of her world, and her boundless energy left a positive impact on everyone who knew her.

Shirley was preceded in death by the love of her life, Jacob Joseph “Joe” Chernitzer, her beloved husband of 50 years; her father, Joseph Berger; her mother, Evelyn; and her favorite aunt, Bertha Glaser.

She is survived by her brother, Donald Berger (Dorene); her children, Lisa Campbell (Ken); Rick Chernitzer (Julie); and Ross Chernitzer (Vicky). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Drew McMillan (Danni), and their daughter, C.C.; Abby McMillan (Davis); Rachel Chernitzer; Michael Chernitzer; and Dylan Chernitzer. Shirley also leaves behind her best friend of more than 75 years, Frances Higger.

A graveside service took place at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Norfolk. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments. The family asks that memorial donations be made to Shirley’s favorite charities, the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.