John Shafer fought dementia over the past decade, and after a stroke died in less than two hours on Tuesday, March 19. He was a good man of uncommon, hidden strength.
He is survived by his wife, Judith Shafer. His children, Scott Shafer and his wife Polly, Amy Macdonald and her husband Craig, his grandchildren, Sophie and her husband Kris Jones, Zoë Shafer, Ally, Austin, Connor, and Henry Macdonald. His great-grandchildren, Ella, Gloriana, Jonathan, and one soon-to-be-born Jones.
John joins his parents, Si and Francis Shafer. His Brother Jim, and his wife Alfi. A host of animals: Dizni, Binky, Scooter, Ricky, Rocco, Jake, Bella, Marshmellow, Angel and Leesa. He was blessed by his time with Odin, Mando, Biscuit, and Sumiko.
He served in the Arkansas United Methodist Church for most of his life, serving at multiple churches, the VA hospital as a Chaplain, and ended his career as a District Superintendent. He retired in Star City and then to Rockwall, Texas. He led a life in full and abides with us always.
A memorial service will be at FUMC Star City, on Saturday, April 27 at 1:00 pm with visitation to follow. Reverends Russell Hull, Bryan Diffee, and C.E. Mcadoo, and his son Scott Shafer presiding.