Doris F. Shaffer

The loss of Doris leaves those progressives who fought Joe McCarthy and his allies with a void that cannot be replaced. Old-timers like me remember her as an important member of the American Labor Party. She was a brave and efficient leader working alongside her husband, Don, on the important struggles we shared in those days. The CCR family will miss her.

I was so saddened by Doris’s death. I most often saw her and Don together at some of the various receptions for the many progressive organizations they supported. It was noticeable (and I always remarked to myself) that they were a loving, close and happy couple. Sometimes though, I saw her without Don especially when she would volunteer at CCR. Everyone at our office loved her. Her working at CCR also spoke to her conviction that donors could be personally involved in the organizations they supported. Doris is sorely missed by all of us.

Being the progressive person that she was, Doris would not have been pleased to be called a gentlewoman. Nevertheless, the words "gentle woman" come to mind when one thinks of her. She managed to combine her lifelong struggle for a better society at home and a better world everywhere with a manner that was always amiable and humble. She was a great friend and must have been a great teacher.

Peter and Cora Weiss, New York

To the Shaffer Family--

Doris was such a such a presence at CCR--we truly appreciated the good will and generosity she showed us over the years, her kindness, her willingness to help and her and volunteer service. She will be missed. You have my sincerest condolences.

To The Family-My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sandy Wolfe, Mechanicsburg,Pennsylvania

To the Shaffer family:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I didn't know Doris, but I went to school with her grandson Alan. After reading about her life, I believe she left some important marks in education and civil liberties. Alan, you come from a good family who has done some great things... now it is time for you to carry on your grandmother's legacy.
You have my sincerest condolences,

Anthony Romero just announced at a National ACLU Board meeting that Doris had died. My condolences to Don and the family and as well as to the progressive community of Long Island and New York. Doris and I served on the Nassau Chapter Board of the ACLU together for many years. Doris was always engaged and committed to the cause of civil liberties. Her life has made a real difference to the greater community as well as to those of us who knew her personally and had the opportunity to both work with her and learn from her. She leaves a wonderful legacy and I hope descendants who will walk her walk.
Richard joins me in celebrating a life worth living. We are sorry that we will not be able to come to the memorial service to honor Doris. Our thoughts will be with you.

I knew Doris in her role as an esteemed member of the History department at Nassau Community College and as the first president of the faculty union that we were required to form for collective bargaining under the Taylor Law over three decades ago. What inspired leadership she commanded throughout her tenure in that office. Many faculty who are presently on staff have no idea of Doris’s contribution to their present professional and financial well-being they enjoy today. Her marvelous leadership and long hours she spent on behalf of the faculty with officers of the NCCFT was extraordinary. I will always remember her level-headedness, intelligence, her humor and her welcoming manner. She made me proud to be a part of that organization. What an inspired life she led in her campus life and in her wider community. Doris was a role model for us all. Indeed we have been blessed. May the gathering of your loved ones and the sharing of family stories give you a sense of peace and comfort at this very difficult time.

Sincerely,
Professor Emeritus, Jack Fink
Art Department, NCC

Doris was not only a supporter of CCR, she was a friend. She volunteered her time, gave constructive criticism when most needed, and unfailingly lifted our spirits when she was with us. Even when times were challenging or someone handed us a set back she was resolute and encouraging. And she was one of the first to call with congratulations after a victory. We will miss her greatly and our hearts go out to her family.

My deepest sympathy to the Shaffer family.