September 5, 2026, 73, – James Howard Shafer, 73, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 5, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. James was born on February 4, 1953, in Vancouver, Washington, to the late George and Gladys Shafer.
James was a hardworking and selfless man who believed that family was one of life’s greatest blessings. Throughout his life, he worked diligently to provide for those he loved. His career included working as a paper boy, managing a hog farm, serving as a security guard at Georgia Pacific, and ultimately retiring as a Sergeant with the Wayne County Detention Center.
A graduate of Eastern Wayne High School, James also attended Wayne Community College where he received an Associate Degree in Accounting. While his work ethic was evident throughout his career, it was his devotion to his family that truly defined him.
James treasured time spent with his wife, Mary, their daughters, and later, his grandchildren. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch his children and grandchildren participate in sports, cheering them on and taking great pride in their accomplishments. He enjoyed working in the yard, remodeling houses, painting, and swimming during the summer months. Family vacations to the beach, Buffalo, and Las Vegas created countless memories that will be cherished for years to come. He also enjoyed going out to eat, especially at Waffle House and Outback, and looked forward to family Halloween parties.
One of James’ greatest passions was bowling. At just 15 years old, he became an N.C. Junior State Champion, beginning a lifelong love for the sport that he shared first with his parents and later with Mary. Perhaps one of his greatest joys came from passing that passion down to his grandchildren through summer bowling programs. He also enjoyed fishing, cars, roller coasters, and just about anything that involved a little friendly competition.
James will be remembered as a selfless, hardworking man whose commitment to his family never wavered. He had a way of making people feel loved and welcomed, whether through one of his warm hugs, his kind smile, or his contagious laughter. He found joy in being present for the people he loved, and his greatest accomplishments were not measured by titles or achievements, but by the love he gave and the memories he created.
James leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and devotion to family. Those who knew him will forever carry the warmth of his hugs, the sound of his laughter, and the example he set through a life lived wholeheartedly for the people he loved.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Shafer; his daughters, Michelle Merritt and her husband, Daryl, and Melinda Reeves and her husband, Kenneth; his four cherished grandchildren, Lexi, Damon, Laney, and Katelyn; his brother, Wayne Shafer; his sister, Carol; and a large extended family in Buffalo, New York.
In addition to his parents, George and Gladys Shafer, James was preceded in death by his brothers, Gary Shafer and Mike Shafer; and his mother-in-law, Catherine Turnage.
Though his family’s hearts are heavy with his passing, they can find comfort in knowing that James’ greatest gift was the love he gave so freely. His life was a testament to the beauty found in family, hard work, laughter, and simply being there for the people who mattered most. His memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.
The family will receive friends on Friday, September 11, 2026 from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park. At other times the family will be at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Daryl Merritt.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in his memory to the SECU Family House at UNC Hospital, 123 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27517.
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