James W. Shaffer

1926 - 2024

James W. Shaffer

September 3, 1926 - December 5, 2024

Mission Hills, Kansas - James W. "Jim" Shaffer, 98, passed December 5, 2024, at home with his wife by his side.

Jim attended grade and high schools in Independence, MO, where he lived for many years. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII. During the Korean Conflict he served as Agent for the office of Naval Intelligence.

Jim was a graduate of the University of Missouri, Kansas City Law School receiving a Juris Doctorate Degree, and he was admitted to practice law by the Missouri Supreme Court in 1950. He was a Special Assistant Attorney General serving Missouri Attorney Generals J.E. "Buck" Taylor and John M. Dalton. He was an Administrative Assistant to U.S. Congressman George Christopher, Missouri Fourth District. He served as an Assistant Jackson County, Missouri County Counselor for two terms. Jim maintained an active practice for 58 years before retirement.

Jim was a member of the Board of Trustees, University of Missouri, Kansas City Law School Foundation, Kansas City, and the Missouri Health and Educational Facilities Authority. He was a 32nd Degree Mason, Shriner and a member of the Scottish Rites.

He was a member of the Blue Hills Country Club for more than 50 years and an avid golfer that took much pride in having scored six holes-in-one. He was privileged to have played many of the greatest golf courses in the nation and his two favorites were the Cypress Point Club and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, both at Pebble Beach, CA. He maintained endearing friendships with his golfing buddies.

Jim cherished his annual family vacations with the granddaughters and great-grandchildren, with the summers in Colorado and at our winter home in Indian Wells, CA. His family was his greatest joy with many treasured memories.

Jim was active in the Democratic Party over the many years, serving as a Chairman of the Jackson County, Missouri Democratic Committee, member of the Missouri Electoral College, and alternate Delegate to the National Democratic Convention.

He married his beautiful and loving wife and soul mate, Phyllis Jean Eikenbary in 1949 and was blessed with 75 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife; a son, James Michael (Erin); two beautiful granddaughters, Jennifer Loeffler (Bryan) and Laura Allen (Julian); and also great-grandchildren, Grant Loeffler, Ford Loeffler, Madison Loeffler, Emily "Emmylou" Allen and Virginia Allen.

Jim was a member of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City. Private family services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Children's Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO, 64106.