Priscilla Ann Schaefer

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Priscilla Ann (Laird) Schaefer, of Buchanan Dam, Texas, on October 5, 2025, at the age of 86. Priscilla was born on April 19, 1939, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Milburn and Esther (Koch) Laird. Priscilla, known affectionately as "Nano" and "Prissy" lived a beautiful life.

Priscilla spent her early years on the family farm near Metropolis, Illinois. Her joy of learning began in a one-room school called Shady Grove, and it led her to being recognized as the 1956 Class Valedictorian at Metropolis Community High School. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Teaching with honors from the University of Illinois, she taught (High School) English and French in Harrisburg, Missouri. She grew up Lutheran, attending church with her grandparents, aunts and uncles, sister, and cousin.

As a life-long learner, she later earned an Associate Degree in Nursing as the Class Valedictorian at Odessa College in Odessa, Texas. Her work as a registered nurse was a testament to her compassionate spirit. She touched countless lives with grace and expertise while working in various settings including a medical practice, critical and post-critical care units, a school, health departments, and a drug and alcohol rehabilitation unit. Prior to retirement, she served as a Wesley Nurse for the Highland Lakes United Methodist Church at Buchanan Dam. As in her previous positions, she improved the health and well-being of many individuals.

Priscilla married the love of her life, David, on January 25, 1959. She embarked on an adventure of worldwide travel, filled with excitement, merriment, and fourteen years away from her childhood family. Priscilla and David lived in Illinois, Missouri, Libya, Mozambique, Angola, and Italy. Priscilla spent time nurturing their children in the backdrop of those unique surroundings. Priscilla was friendly with everyone. Whether it was at the Gulf Club on the coast of Luanda, Angola, a large party of friends, or a small dinner party, her laughter carried the moment. She made friends from Africa, Europe, all over the United States, and the world.

Later, the family moved to Midland, Texas. She would remain in Texas the rest of her life living in Katy and Buchanan Dam. She raised her beloved children, Angela, Jeffrey, and Diane taking them to Sunday school and placing importance on education. She belonged to PTO's, Band Parents, and attended Friday Night Lights while in Midland. She provided regular visits to the library, movie theater nights, and family favorite meals. Through every relocation, Priscilla provided a constant source of spiritual guidance for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always seeking out and establishing the family in a new church home. She was a Baptist in Angola, and joined the Methodist Church in Rome, Italy. She knew most hymns, most church members, and supported pastors and staff along the way. During this stage of life, she joined bridge and book clubs. These clubs were areas in which she pursued her passions. If you were in her Circle of Life, she did her best to stay in touch through cards, calls, emails, and visits.

Priscilla's family members and close friends remember her as a story telling, book reading, card writing, chocolate chip cake baking, Cheetos munching, waffle making, sports reporting, and family loving woman. She was a kind, intelligent, and humble individual. Those who had the chance to spend even a few moments with Priscilla, recognized her interest in making a deep, lasting connection with them. Her sparkling eyes and smile radiated a warmth and joyful spirit that touched everyone she met.

Priscilla is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, David Schaefer; her children Angela Harral (DA), Jeffrey Schaefer (Billie Sue), and Diane Arredondo (Eduardo); her grandchildren Mark Harral (Jessica), Kristi Urias (Nataniel), Kati Rogers (Eric), Kelli Burns (Nicholas), and Jake Harral (Gabrielle); her great-grandchildren, Westin, Grant, Owen, Kennedi, Kimmi, Grace, Kolt, Andi, Luke, Kassidi, and Tatum; her nieces Lisa, Kathy, and Susan; and cousins.

Priscilla was preceded in death by her parents, Milburn and Esther (Koch) Laird; and her beloved sister, Judith (Laird) Flaherty.

Please join us for a memorial service to celebrate the life of Priscilla on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Highland Lakes United Methodist Church of Buchanan Dam at 8303 RR 1431.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire teams of New Century Hospice and The Brixton at Horseshoe Bay for their compassionate care.