James W. Shaffer

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Walter Shaffer, who left this world on April 14, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Jim was born on April 13, 1977, in Berwick, Pennsylvania, and lived a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.
Jim was the beloved son of Henry and Barbara Shaffer and was preceded in death by his grandparents, Henry and Frances Shaffer, and Dr. Walter and Clare Andress. He is survived by his wife, Anne Shaffer, with whom he shared a beautiful partnership for 21 years. Together, they created a loving home for their two children, Connor and Aubrey Shaffer.
Jim was a proud brother to David (Megan) Shaffer of Bloomsburg, PA, and Michael (Lorie) Shaffer of Raleigh, NC, and leaves behind several aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins.
Jim graduated from Central Columbia High School in 1995 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in English Education from Bloomsburg University in 2000. He furthered his education with a Master's Degree from Wilkes University in 2009. Jim dedicated his professional life to teaching students at William Chrisman High School in Independence, Missouri, from 2001 to 2006, and at South Western High School in Hanover, Pennsylvania, from 2006 until 2025. In 2020, he was honored with an Excellence in Education award, a testament to his commitment to his students and the impact he made in their lives.
Beyond the classroom, Jim was also an ordained minister in the Community of Christ Church. He frequently led worship and provided ministry of music. His love for his church family shone brightly, and he enjoyed spending time at the church-owned campground, Deer Park, located in New Hope, Pennsylvania.
Jim was a gift to all of us: kind and loving, thoughtful and present, joyfully human and full of life. He had a way of grounding us, comforting us, and making us laugh with his corny humor that often elicited both groans and smiles. His joy was infectious, and his love for people was evident in everything he did. His extraordinary musical talents-whether singing, playing, or leading-lifted us all, providing comfort and connection. He had a remarkable ability to make others feel included and loved. He will be missed deeply and fiercely, but his light, joy, music, and even his jokes will forever remain in our hearts.
As we reflect on Jim's life, we are reminded of the poignant words from Ellen Brenneman's poem, "His Journey's Just Begun." It speaks to the essence of Jim's spirit and the love he shared:
Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.
And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched
for nothing loved is ever lost
and he was loved so much.
The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, May 16, 2025 from 2:00PM - 4:00PM and 6:00PM - 8:00PM at Beck Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., of Spring Grove, 175 N. Main St., Spring Grove, PA 17362 and on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 9:00AM - 11AM at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 839 W. Market St., York, PA 17401 followed by A Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 AM at the church.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express their sympathy can consider a donation to Deer Park Campgrounds, a ministry that was close to Jim's heart. Donations can be sent to Deer Park Camp and Retreat Center, 6290 Lower Mountain Road, New Hope, PA 18938.
Share condolences at www.beckfunerals.com