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Richard Schaffer Obituary
Richard White Schaffer
July 16, 1934 - May 24, 2025
Schaffer, Richard White, 90, of Henrico departed this world peacefully on May 24, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. His passing leaves a profound void, yet his legacy is a source of great inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He now rests alongside his beloved wife of 62 years, Alma Lee Schaffer, with whom he built a life full of love, adventure, and shared dreams.
Born on July 16, 1934, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dick was the cherished son of Carl M. and Edith R. Schaffer. Raised in Arlington, Virginia, he attended St. Stephens Episcopal prep school, where his formative years cultivated his intellect and character. Continuing his academic journey, Dick enrolled at Duke University, earning both his undergraduate and law degrees. It was during his time at Duke that he experienced one of life's fortuitous moments, a blind date that introduced him to Alma Lee. Lee would become his lifelong partner in love and life.
Following his academic achievements, Dick answered the call of duty and served as a JAG officer for the U.S. Air Force at RAF Station Wethersfield in England from 1959 to 1962. His service to his country was marked by honor, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Upon his honorable discharge, Dick embarked on a distinguished legal career in Richmond, Virginia. Initially clerking for U.S. District Eastern Court Judge John Butzner, he quickly demonstrated his brilliance as a legal mind. He spent three decades with Sands, Anderson, Marks, and Clark, earning a reputation as a compelling litigator who approached each case with tenacity and meticulous preparation. Later, Dick formed Schaffer and Cabell, where he continued to practice law until his retirement in 2009.
Dick's life outside of his profession was equally vibrant and fulfilling. Weekends often found him at Yankee Point Marina aboard his cherished boat, "Pipedream," exploring the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. At the age of 40, Dick embraced another passion by earning his pilot's license, reflecting his adventurous spirit and determination to embark on new ventures.
Among his many loves, golf held a special place in Dick's heart. His enthusiasm for the sport took him to legendary courses such as St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, and Pinehurst. Summers at Holden Beach, North Carolina, became treasured family gatherings, brimming with laughter, relaxation, and connection.
An avid sports enthusiast, Dick was an unwavering fan of Duke Basketball and the Washington Redskins (even when they became the Commanders). Game days were sacred, with Dick stationed in his recliner, pipe in hand, passionately expressing his opinions to the referees on TV-a testament to his enduring love for the thrill of competition.
Predeceased by his beloved wife, parents, and brother, Carl R. Schaffer. Dick leaves behind a legacy carried on by his four children, Rebecca Tully (Kevin), Rick Schaffer (Anne), Reed Schaffer, and Kate Thompson (Will).
His greatest joy was his family, including his nine grandchildren, Kristen Tully (MaKensie), Curran Tully, Sam Schaffer (Alexandra), Alec Schaffer, Colin Schaffer (Rachel), Ethan Schaffer, Brayton Murphy (Carrington), Macy Speidell (Connor), and Charlie Thompson, and his great-grandson, Lucas Schaffer. Also surviving are his niece, Candy Schaffer-Bogley (Jim) and nephew, Steve Eichelberger. Dick's faithful beagle, Honey, was his devoted companion, bringing him comfort and joy.
Dick was the type of quiet man who loved unconditionally, was always accepting and welcomed everyone. A man of many talents, interests, and virtues, he lived a life marked by professionalism, loyalty, and joy. Those who knew him will remember his keen intellect, his boundless dedication to his family, and his zest for life's adventures. Whether in the courtroom, on the golf course, or aboard his beloved boat, Dick exemplified a life lived to the fullest.
Dick will be laid to rest with full military honors at a private service in Hollywood Cemetery. A public memorial will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Parkinson's Foundation or an animal rescue charity of your choice.
July 16, 1934 - May 24, 2025
Schaffer, Richard White, 90, of Henrico departed this world peacefully on May 24, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. His passing leaves a profound void, yet his legacy is a source of great inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He now rests alongside his beloved wife of 62 years, Alma Lee Schaffer, with whom he built a life full of love, adventure, and shared dreams.
Born on July 16, 1934, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dick was the cherished son of Carl M. and Edith R. Schaffer. Raised in Arlington, Virginia, he attended St. Stephens Episcopal prep school, where his formative years cultivated his intellect and character. Continuing his academic journey, Dick enrolled at Duke University, earning both his undergraduate and law degrees. It was during his time at Duke that he experienced one of life's fortuitous moments, a blind date that introduced him to Alma Lee. Lee would become his lifelong partner in love and life.
Following his academic achievements, Dick answered the call of duty and served as a JAG officer for the U.S. Air Force at RAF Station Wethersfield in England from 1959 to 1962. His service to his country was marked by honor, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Upon his honorable discharge, Dick embarked on a distinguished legal career in Richmond, Virginia. Initially clerking for U.S. District Eastern Court Judge John Butzner, he quickly demonstrated his brilliance as a legal mind. He spent three decades with Sands, Anderson, Marks, and Clark, earning a reputation as a compelling litigator who approached each case with tenacity and meticulous preparation. Later, Dick formed Schaffer and Cabell, where he continued to practice law until his retirement in 2009.
Dick's life outside of his profession was equally vibrant and fulfilling. Weekends often found him at Yankee Point Marina aboard his cherished boat, "Pipedream," exploring the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. At the age of 40, Dick embraced another passion by earning his pilot's license, reflecting his adventurous spirit and determination to embark on new ventures.
Among his many loves, golf held a special place in Dick's heart. His enthusiasm for the sport took him to legendary courses such as St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, and Pinehurst. Summers at Holden Beach, North Carolina, became treasured family gatherings, brimming with laughter, relaxation, and connection.
An avid sports enthusiast, Dick was an unwavering fan of Duke Basketball and the Washington Redskins (even when they became the Commanders). Game days were sacred, with Dick stationed in his recliner, pipe in hand, passionately expressing his opinions to the referees on TV-a testament to his enduring love for the thrill of competition.
Predeceased by his beloved wife, parents, and brother, Carl R. Schaffer. Dick leaves behind a legacy carried on by his four children, Rebecca Tully (Kevin), Rick Schaffer (Anne), Reed Schaffer, and Kate Thompson (Will).
His greatest joy was his family, including his nine grandchildren, Kristen Tully (MaKensie), Curran Tully, Sam Schaffer (Alexandra), Alec Schaffer, Colin Schaffer (Rachel), Ethan Schaffer, Brayton Murphy (Carrington), Macy Speidell (Connor), and Charlie Thompson, and his great-grandson, Lucas Schaffer. Also surviving are his niece, Candy Schaffer-Bogley (Jim) and nephew, Steve Eichelberger. Dick's faithful beagle, Honey, was his devoted companion, bringing him comfort and joy.
Dick was the type of quiet man who loved unconditionally, was always accepting and welcomed everyone. A man of many talents, interests, and virtues, he lived a life marked by professionalism, loyalty, and joy. Those who knew him will remember his keen intellect, his boundless dedication to his family, and his zest for life's adventures. Whether in the courtroom, on the golf course, or aboard his beloved boat, Dick exemplified a life lived to the fullest.
Dick will be laid to rest with full military honors at a private service in Hollywood Cemetery. A public memorial will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Parkinson's Foundation or an animal rescue charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Jun. 1, 2025.
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