John Jessie Shaffer Sr

John Jessie “Johnny” Shaffer Sr. was born on May 18, 1943, in Colver, Pennsylvania, to John and Helen Balog Shaffer. He passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025, in Kingwood, Texas, at the age of 81.

John retired after a dedicated 37 ½ years as an Operations Supervisor with Houston Light and Power. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, demonstrating honor and patriotism throughout his life.

Johnny had a love for the outdoors, often spending time in his garden, collecting seeds, and especially enjoying fishing. He had a passion for working with his hands, whether it was raising chickens, cutting wood, or pouring concrete. Many in the neighborhood relied on him for tree work, and he was always eager to lend a hand. Known for his fondness for a good buffet, Johnny also had a unique fashion sense—often spotted in his signature cutoff jeans, a well-worn green welding jacket, flannels with ‘air holes,’ and his trusty Velcro tennis shoes.

From his beloved front porch, Johnny served as the unofficial welcoming committee and neighborhood watch. His daily routine included friendly interactions with the postman, package delivery crews, and neighbors, always keeping a watchful eye on the street.

Johnny had a heart for helping others. His home was always open to those in need, and he was the type of man who would give the shirt off his back. He instilled in his family the importance of hard work and self-reliance. Known for his “Dad jokes,” many of which were repeated for extra effect, Johnny was dedicated to his family’s well-being and happiness.

He took great pride in returning to his roots in Pennsylvania, eagerly sharing his birthplace with family and friends. The family farm held a special place in his heart, and he made sure his loved ones cherished it as much as he did. In true Johnny fashion, he even taught them to ‘pick rocks’ as part of their early indoctrination.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, including his beloved dog, Lucy.

Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Shaffer; his brothers-in-law, Bill Evans and Clyde Pady; and his granddaughter, Zoey Elaine Walker. Parents-in-law, Clyde “Red” and Ruby Pady; son John Jeffrey Shaffer. 

He is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Jeanie Shaffer; his sons, J.J. Shaffer and husband Rocky Perkins, and Scott Williams; his daughters, Jessica Walker and husband Patrick Walker, Cynthia Guynes and husband Doug Guynes, Jan and Jeanette Shaffer. He is also survived by his brothers, Tommy Shaffer and wife Pam, and George Shaffer; sisters, Helen Evans, Alice Hill and husband Dexter Hill; grandchildren, Jody Williams, Tori Baskerville, Brianna Guynes, Madalynn Williams, Christen and Brandi Shaffer; great-grandchildren, Jessie Williams, Ryley Williams, and Ezekiel Williams; and many other family members, including brothers-in-law Kenneth Pady and wife Debbie, Terry Pady and wife Linda, Keith Pady and wife Pam, and Darrell Pady; sisters-in-law Janet Watkins and husband Dutch, and Deborah Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home Chapel, followed by burial with military honors provided by the Houston Honor Guard at Houston National Cemetery at 2:15 p.m.

Pallbearers will include Terry (TJ) Pady, Kerry Pady, Jody Williams, Patrick Walker, Kenneth Randall, and Tommy Watkins.