Judith A. (Stone) Shafer

Judith (Judi) A. Shafer, 81, of Rootstown, passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at UH Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 10, 1942, in Sharon, PA, to the late William F. and Lillian (Cicconetti) Stone. Judi was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Church, where she attended Catholic grade school. She graduated from Ravenna High School in 1960 and attended Riggs Lamar School of Beauty, passing her state boards on January 1, 1961. Judi worked alongside her mother, Lillian Stone, as a beautician at Ravenna Permanent Wave Shop in Ravenna for 50 years until they closed the shop in 2011. Judi was an Avon representative and a member of Avon's President's Club for over 25 years. She was also a member of the Portage County Historical Society and studied genealogy, helping many families find their loved ones' grave sites and even sending pictures to the families. Judi was married to the love of her life, David F. Shafer Jr., for 53 years. She loved Elvis, Buck Owens, and many other singers; music was a significant part of her life. She even played the accordion. She had a love for all things from the Victorian Era and enjoyed admiring the architecture of older churches and homes. Her love for elephants (owning over 200) resulted in people bringing her elephant gifts from all over, and no two were alike. Judi was known for her beautiful smile, delicious cooking, and wonderful sense of humor. She was the life of the party and always had everyone laughing. Judi was fiercely loving, always putting her family first. She cared for her Aunt Elaine Cicconetti, her mother Lillian, and her husband David, who all preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her son, Joseph Albert Shafer, who was miscarried. Survivors include her children, Christine Shafer (Bill Hilty) and Joseph Shafer, and her grandchildren, Matthew Keller (Marissa Dupre) and Jacob Keller. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Abigail, her cat "Takita," and her cat Mexi. Calling hours will be from 5 PM to 7 PM on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Shorts Spicer Crislip Funeral Home Ravenna Chapel. A funeral mass will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Church in Ravenna, with Father William Kraynak officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Ravenna. Condolences and memories of Judith may be shared at www.sscfuneralhomes.com.