The beloved Holly Jo Shablack passed away peacefully in her home in Staunton, Virginia, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, following a courageous and dignified battle with colon cancer. Born on October 28, 1990, at the Patuxent River Naval Base in Maryland to the late John Edward Shablack, Jr. and Mansueta Shablack, Holly lived a life defined by intellectual rigor, deep compassion, and an unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Holly’s academic journey was marked by brilliance and a quest for understanding. A proud alumna of the University of Michigan and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she carried the spirit of excellence into her professional life. She began her teaching career at Oberlin College and was establishing herself at Washington and Lee University. As an admired Assistant Professor, Holly was a distinguished scholar whose contributions to her field were matched only by her dedication to her students. She didn’t just teach; she mentored, guided, and inspired, leaving an indelible mark.

Beyond her professional accolades, Holly’s true legacy lies in her selfless, loving nature. She possessed the rare gift of being a safe space for everyone she encountered—family, friends, and students alike. Her impact on the lives of many was profound, rooted in her ability to listen without judgment and love without condition. At home, she found immense joy in the simple things, especially the loyal companionship of her beloved dog, Ein, who was a constant source of comfort and a true member of the family.

Holly leaves behind her devoted and loving husband, Derek Goodheart, and her cherished daughter, Lucia Goodheart, who was the light of her life. In addition to her mother, Mansueta, she will be deeply missed by her siblings: Junrey (Sarah), Sita Marie (Jeremy), and Johnnie Ann (Matt). She also leaves behind her father-in-law Perry, mother-in-law Darlene, sister-in-law Ashley (Levi), as well as many nieces, nephews, and a vast circle of supportive and caring friends.

The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.

A Graveside Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Thornrose Cemetery.

Following the service, the family will host a gathering to honor Holly’s vibrant spirit at Stable Craft Brewing.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in the form of donations to the Colon Cancer Society. https://colorectalcancer.org/

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton is in charge of her arrangements.