Philip Shafer

Phil Shafer passed away at 85 years old on October 8th 2025. To David and Jeff Shafer, he was “Dad.” To Alex, Andria and Owen Shafer, he was “Grandpa.” He was the third son of Gertrude and Joseph; the youngest brother of Mort and Neil; the treasured father-in-law of Lei-Fah and Nikki; the beloved uncle of many nieces and nephews. And above all else, to Sara Shafer, he was the love of a lifetime.

Phil and Sara met on a blind date, fell in love immediately, and knew after one evening together that they would be married. They stayed together for 61 years. Together, they gave our family many gifts.

Phil was an incredible provider. He gave his children everything we could ask for. We traveled. We celebrated. We made homes and memories in so many places -- New York, Chicago, Texas, Florida, England and finally North Carolina. We had incredible lives together. He was at the heart of all of that. He made it possible.

Phil Shafer led his family with love and kindness. He taught his children about compassion, empathy, and generosity. The last couple of years have not been the easiest. As his health declined, day-to-day life became more difficult. But as we remember him we look past the challenges and limitations of his final years. We remember with love the fine man who married his only true love, raised two sons, loved his extended family more than words could describe, and above all else was a role model for what it means to be a good human being.

Phil … Dad… Grandpa… we ALL love you and we miss you, but you will never be far from our hearts and thoughts, and we hope you know that we are grateful for every moment that we got to be part of your family. All of our love, forever and always.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Shafer family.