of Traskwood, AR
August 24, 1941 - January 30, 2022
Donna Mae Shaffer, age 80, of Traskwood, Arkansas passed away on Sunday, January 30, 2022. She was born in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania on August 24, 1941, to her late parents, James and Violet Nicholls. Donna retired from Stephens in Little Rock, AR after 25 years as the switchboard operator.
Donna had many passions in life. She loved spending time outdoors on her deck and spending time with her goldendoodle Bear, her ever faithful companion. She would spend hours searching for new recipes to try out and loved sharing them with family and friends, she loved to bake and cook. The rest of her time was usually spent, painting, reading and knitting.
She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, MSgt. Paul M. Shaffer USMC (Ret.). Survivors include her son, James Shaffer (Dottie) and daughter Melanie Cook (John). Donna is also survived by two grandchildren, Joshua Walter, Rogers AR. and Caitlin Walraven (Richard), Cabot AR, and two great grandchildren Lily and Ivy.
Donna will be laid to rest with her husband at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, Sherwood, AR in a private ceremony.
A Celebration of Life will be from 1:00 - 3:00 pm Saturday February 12, 2022, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas.
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12 Condolence(s)
Sandra Carter (Peyer)
Friday, January 19, 2024
I worked at Stephens nearly 40 years ago, and Donna still has such an influence in my life. I especially think about her stories of being a military wife, traveling and moving, and living 'light' because of that. I'm sorry that we lost touch through the years... I would have loved to sit and chat over coffee with her. Such fond memories... I'm so sorry for your loss, Melanie. Your mom was loved and admired by so many people.
Marilyn Gustafson
Friday, February 11, 2022
Melanie, I as so sorry for your loss. I loved talking to Donna at Stephens. She had a great sense of humor and always had a good story to tell. Sending prayers for peace and comfort for you and your family.
Doug Brown, Jr.
Thursday, February 10, 2022
Such a special lady. I always enjoyed our visits and conversations - I left feeling uplifted every time. I know she and Top are having a grand reunion!
Elizabeth "Iboo" Miller
Monday, February 7, 2022
Melanie -
Your mom was always such a delight to run into at Stephens! I am so very sorry for your loss - it's tough to lose your mama! Sending hugs your way,
Iboo Miller
Keith and Robin Neumeier
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Donna, It seems that your and Paul's travels with us on this Earth have come to a close. Though I won't smell your scones baking in my kitchen any longer while we have coffee, Robin and I will always carry you both deeply in our hearts. I will always reflect fondly on our travels in Germany. Having a lemon tort in the Palace at Karlsruhe, or a Eis Kaffe in Trier, or that wonderful Ice cream place, Amorino, we found just off the Cathedrale Platz in Strasbourg, France. We were blessed to spend the days with you. I will forever be thankful to you for teaching me to be bold and if you love to travel, then travel. Miss you daily, Donna.
Cindy Bell
Friday, February 4, 2022
Donna was such a delight to be around at Stephens! She always had a friendly wave and a big smile when you'd pass the receptionist area on the second floor. I enjoyed our conversations in the breakroom. She definitely loved her family fiercely! Deepest condolences to all of her family, she was a very special lady.
Kaye Earney
Thursday, February 3, 2022
I first met Donna at the Benton Farmer's Market. She would come with her daughter Melanie, and son in law, John. From the first, we just really hit it off. Donna was such a joy to me. We are both artists so we started painting together. I just loved the times I got to spend with her. I wouldn’t trade those times for anything. I am so thankful we got to know each other…I will miss her unbelievably. My prayers are will you Melanie, John, James, and Josh…and, of course her sweet puppy, Bear. One thing for certain, Donna loved her family! She loved talking about each of you!!!
Brandi Hicks
Thursday, February 3, 2022
I'm so very sorry for your loss. The family is in my prayers during this time.
Marcy Adams
Thursday, February 3, 2022
Donna was a beautiful friend. We shared many stories while at Stephens. She was always smiling and so upbeat. She knew all my family members by “voice†when they would call me, she would always ask how they were doing. My heart goes out to Her
Precious family. May God and beautiful memories help you during this sad time.
Lynda Louthian
Thursday, February 3, 2022
My love and prayers to the family. I enjoyed working with Donna at Stephens. She was always sharing her many talents with us. She could see beauty in so many things and shared that beauty with others. A very special lady who was gracious and kind.
Jean Burns
Thursday, February 3, 2022
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. I pray that God will give you strength and comfort you during this most difficult time.
Doug Brown, Jr.
Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Such a special lady. I always enjoyed our visits and conversations - I left feeling uplifted every time. I know she and Top are having a grand reunion!