John A Schaeffer Jr.

John A. Schaeffer, Jr., of Palmer, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at Wing Memorial Hospital in Palmer, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 25, 1949, in Ludlow, Massachusetts, John was the son of the late John A. Schaeffer, Sr. and Beverly (Mortland) Schaeffer. He attended Agawam High School and later graduated from Springfield Technical Community College. John was the proud proprietor of Locust Street Autobody in Springfield, where he built a strong reputation for his skill, integrity, and dedication. A lifelong car enthusiast, he found great joy in working with his hands, restoring vehicles, and bringing them back to life. A true lover of life, John was an avid fan of the New England Patriots, the Boston Red Sox, and NASCAR. More than anything, though, John cherished his family and his faith, which were at the very center of his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon L. (Harris) Schaeffer of Palmer; his two devoted children, Diana Henchey and her husband John of Agawam, and Thomas G. Schaeffer and his wife Deborah of East Longmeadow; his two sisters, Martha Schaeffer Feinstein and her husband Paul of Delray Beach, Florida, and Anne Schaeffer Newdick and her husband Mark of Easton, Maryland. He also leaves behind his eight cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Daniel, Leanna, Jonathan, Samantha, Anthony, Asia, and Savannah and three adored great-grandchildren, Hadden, Logan, and Grayson. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his brother, Thomas G. Schaeffer, and a great grandchild, Zachary. Family and friends are invited to gather for calling hours on Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield, MA 01118. John's funeral service will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, meeting directly at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick's Church, 1900 Allen Street, Springfield. Burial will follow at West Cemetery in Somers, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John's memory to a charity of one's choice. John will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, unwavering faith, and the deep love he shared with his family. His kindness, humor, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.