William Francis "Beaver" Schaaf Jr.

William Francis "Beaver" Schaaf Jr.
November 11, 1952 – October 26, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved brother, William Francis Schaaf Jr., affectionately known as "Beaver," on October 26, 2025 - just days before his 73rd birthday.

Born in Galveston, Texas, on November 11, 1952, to Bill and Josephine Schaaf, Beaver was the fourth child and the first son. His three sisters eagerly awaited his arrival and spoiled him from day one. As the only boy for several years, he was our father's pride and joy, often introduced as "Big, Brave, Strong, and Handsome" - a title that stayed with him well into adulthood.

How can we begin to express how deeply we loved him, or capture the countless memories that fill our hearts? Beaver was kind, intelligent, funny, and had an unmatched gift for storytelling and humor. Our childhood together was a lively mix of activity and affection, as our parents balanced the family business and six spirited children. Family vacations across the country in our station wagon were nothing short of magical, memories we cherish to this day. Our parents instilled in us a strong sense of family, a legacy passed down from our grandparents and carried forward in our lives.

A gifted athlete, Beaver was inducted into the Galveston Little League Hall of Fame and was an outstanding pitcher for O'Connell High School, where he once threw a no-hitter. He also excelled in basketball, loved hunting and fishing, and was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros fan. Beyond sports, Beaver was a devoted Beach Boys enthusiast and attended their concerts many times in both Galveston and Biloxi.

Faith was central to Beaver's life. A lifelong practicing Catholic, he attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, where he faithfully served as an altar boy at daily Mass and funerals. He graduated from O'Connell High School in 1971 and went on to attend Sam Houston University, where he made lasting friendships as a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. He later transferred to the University of Houston, earning a degree in Business.

Beaver began his career in accounting at Lipton Tea, but his love of hospitality led him to manage one of the family's restaurants, where he thrived for many years. After retiring, he returned to his cherished hometown of Galveston, before eventually moving to Biloxi, his mother's hometown, where he lived out his remaining years surrounded by the people and places he loved most.

Beaver was preceded in death by his loving parents, Josephine and Bill Schaaf, and his sister, Marian Lynn Schaaf. He is survived by his devoted sisters Elena Jo Petree (Pete), Catherine Bennett, and Stephanie Marquard (Kevin), and 2 brothers Joseph (King) Schaaf (Carolyn), Stephen (Boo) Schaaf (Cynthia), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever remember his warmth, wit, and unwavering love of family.

Beaver's life was rich with laughter, loyalty, and love, and though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with those who went before him. His memory will live on in the stories we share and the love that binds our family together. He was a good son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to all. We will miss him greatly.

Beaver was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Josephine Schaaf, sister, Marian Lynn Schaaf and brother-in-law Jim Bennett. He is survived by his three sisters, Elena Jo Petree (Pete), Catherine Bennett, Stephanie Marquard (Kevin), 2 brothers, Joseph (King) Schaaf (Carolyn), Stephen (Boo) Schaaf (Cynthia). He is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews and 14 great nieces and nephews, 10 first cousins, and a host of other dear cousins.

Funeral arrangements in Biloxi MS are under the direction of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home. A Mass will be held at Nativity Catholic Church in the Marian Chapel at 8AM on Nov.1, 2025, with the Rev. Godfrey Andoh officiating.

Funeral arrangements in Galveston TX will be under the direction of Carnes Brothers Funeral Home on November 6, 2025. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 12-1 PM followed by services beginning at 1PM. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Galveston TX.