Lionel E. “Shorty” Shaeffer, 90, of Downingtown, passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024. He was the husband of Jacqueline (Silvestri) Shaeffer, sharing 25 years of marriage.
Born in Hamstead, Maryland on June 25, 1934, he was the son of the late Francis and Loretta Shaeffer. Lionel graduated from Downingtown High School with the class of 1952. He went on to work for Bell Telephone as a cable splicer, retiring after 44 years. He was a member of the Williamson Masonic Lodge #309, the Valley of Reading Consistory, and Rajah Shriners. He was also a longtime member of Downingtown United Methodist Church.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his children Mindy Graham (Rick), Jeffrey Shaeffer (Debbie); grandchildren Ryan Graham (Jane), Ashley Messer (Kevin) and Scarlett Shaeffer; great grandchildren Robin, Sean, Wyatt and Emily; step-sons James Silvestri, Daniel Silvestri (Gayle), and Robert Silvestri (Mary Ann); seven step grandchildren, twelve step great grandchildren; and siblings Christine Piersol and David Shaeffer. He was preceded in death by Shirley (Kay) Shaeffer, his wife of 43 years, son Randy Shaeffer, and brother Harry Shaeffer.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 3rd, 2025 at 11:00 AM, visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, at Downingtown United Methodist Church, 751 E Lancaster Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Lionel’s memory to the Lord’s Pantry of Downingtown, 141 E Lancaster Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335. To leave online condolences, please visit www.jamesterryfuneralhome.com.
