Thomas Johns Shaffer, 70, of Walterboro, SC, passed away from complications of Lewy Body Dementia on December 07, 2023.
He was born on July 23, 1953, in Evansville, IN, to the late Gerald and Anne (Ford) Shaffer. Thomas, also known as Tom, had a rich and fulfilling life.
Tom's family meant the world to him. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Joyce (Harrell) Shaffer, his son Andrew Shaffer, his daughter Lauren Shaffer Reinhart (Chris Reinhardt), and his cherished grandchildren Savannah and Allison Reinhardt, Bryce and Ford McKinney. He is also survived by his sister, Jane Shaffer Lee (Rex Lee), his nephew Ben Lee, his sister-in-law, Barbara Fairchild-Newman, his nephew Joe Fairchild, and his niece Pamela Clark (Cody Clark). Tom was preceded in death by his father Gerald Shaffer, his mother Anne (Ford) Shaffer, and his brother Lee Shaffer.
Tom's educational journey began at Washington Elementary in Evansville, IN. He went on to graduate from Bosse High School, also in Evansville. Tom's thirst for knowledge led him to pursue higher education, and he proudly graduated from Purdue University.
Tom was passionate about sports, with Purdue Basketball, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cincinnati Reds being his favorites. He loved the ocean and travel. A testament to his love of diving led him to become a PADI Scuba Instructor and a volunteer diver at The Newport Kentucky Aquarium. His dedication and expertise earned him the respect of his peers and students.
In addition to his hobbies, Tom had a successful career in the food service industry. He worked at Laughners Cafeterias in Indianapolis, IN, and Cambridge Inn Cafeterias in Indiana and Ohio. Later, he became the Manager of Food Service at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Kentucky. Tom also served as a Customer Service Supervisor at American and Delta Airlines, where his commitment to excellence shone through.
Tom's favorite place on earth was the family home on Water Island, US Virgin Islands. He had traveled there since he was a young child and enjoyed the time he spent there with his children and grandsons. It was there that he found solace and created cherished family memories. After Tom retired, he enjoyed his time at his South Carolina home, nicknamed Tiny Town.
Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of passion, dedication, and love for his family and hobbies will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
A private family ceremony will be held at a later date to honor and remember Tom.
Arrangements by: The Brice W. Herndon And Sons Funeral Homes And Crematory, Walterboro Chapel, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, South Carolina, 29488. Visit the guestbook online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.
