Ruth L. Shaffer

Ruth Lorraine Shaffer, age 90, of Columbia, SC passed away peacefully on Friday July, 24, 2020 at NHC Lexington. She was born February 22, 1930, in West Newton, Pennsylvania to Francis and Hannah Barkley. She married her husband of 52 years, Fred Shaffer, on August 13, 1960. They started their lives in together in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania before moving to Columbia, SC in 1969.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband Fred (2012) and youngest daughter Marla Shaffer Fuller (2014).

Lorraine lived a full life as a wonderful, dedicated mother who raised her three children while working part-time as a floral designer at various locations in Columbia, SC.

She was a feisty red head with a strong will and a sweet spirit who reminded us on many occasions that "dynamite comes in small packages." She was also one of the kindest and most generous of people. She loved to decorate, kept an immaculate house, and enjoyed weekly square dances and traveling with family and friends. She was an active member of Ashland United Methodist Church and the Gardendale Garden Club for many years giving generously of her time and talents. Most of all she loved her family, especially her six grandchildren who affectionately called her "Grandy." She dedicated herself to creating lasting family memories and making each of them feel loved and special. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

She is survived by her brother Arthur, daughter Lori (Kelly), son Mark (Angie), son-in-law Keith Fuller, grandchildren: Brittany Fuller, Alexis Wahlstrom (Dylan), Kayla and Thomas Shaffer, Connor and Joshua Logan, and great-grandchildren: Kagen and Kensi Wahlstrom.

A private family "Celebration of Life" will be held at a later date, in lieu of a service.

As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to the Saluda Shoals Foundation, 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212.