Joann Shaffer

It is with great sadness that the family of Joann Roberta (Boden) Shaffer, 92, of Oakland, Maryland, announces her passing. She began her new life on March 4, 2025, after an inspiring 10 year battle with cancer.

Born in the summer of 1932, in Cumberland, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Lucile (Frantz) Boden. She was the widow of William Perry Shaffer, Sr, who predeceased her in 2002. Joann was also preceded in death by a son, William Perry Shaffer, Jr., "PJ", an infant daughter, Carolyn, and a son in law, Louis A Serafin.

She is survived by her sister and her husband, Sandra and John Haus, of Cumberland. Forever missing her gentle nature and loving support are seven of her children, Cynthia (John) Sanders, Hugh (Tammy) Shaffer, Timothy (Cathy) Shaffer, Martha (Francesco) Partipilo, Susan (Michael) O'Brien, Joann Elizabeth "Beth" (Rod) Smith and Joseph (Kimberly) Shaffer. In addition she is celebrated by 22 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

Joann was a graduate of Allegany High School Class of 1950 and attended Catherman's Business School and Garrett County Community College. She was employed as a secretary at Southern Garrett High School library. Joann was a devoted parishioner of St Peter's Catholic Church where she volunteered as a board member and held various positions. She was also a DAR member and an active member of the Southern Garrett County Rescue Squad for forty years.

Joann had a deep love for her family, friends, and her church. Throughout her life, she was accompanied by her feline friends. She was, in her words, "a lifelong lover of cats" and spoke hopefully of seeing them in the next life . An enthusiastic Pittsburgh Steelers fan and a gifted artist, she also enjoyed reading, gardening, quilting, genealogy, thereby delighting in the world around her.

The staff of Cherry Hill Assisted Living of Accident gave exceptional care as they guided and aided Joann and her family for three years. We are inspired by the sweet humanity and love shown, making these last years so meaningful.

Friends will be received at Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes, P.A., 21 N 2nd St., Oakland, on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 3 to 6 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 208 S 4th St., Oakland, on Monday, March 10, 2025 at 10 AM with Fr. Bill Keown as celebrant. Words from the family will be shared with congregation at 9:55 AM.

Interment will follow in Hillcrest Burial Park, Cumberland, Maryland.

Memorial donations may be considered to benefit Garrett County Rescue Squad or to Garrett County Animal Shelter.

The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes are honored to caring for the Shaffer family.