Shafer Morrissey

On Thursday, January 11, 2024 the world dimmed as one of the bravest and happiest young men left his earthly body and wheelchair behind to run, sing and dance his way to the pearly gates of heaven. But the stars shone a bit brighter as Shafer Garrett Morrissey, age 22, entered the arms of our Lord as they celebrated his return home.

He leaves behind a grieving but joyful family that includes his mother, Harmony Hurst Morrissey; sisters, Meg and Clara; father, Travis Morrissey; grandparents Margaret Henry who he named Goo, Jim Morrissey, Ann Morrissey and Rita and Q. Byrum Hurst. Shafer also leaves a large and loving family of aunts and uncles; Lisa and Josh Hurst; Kim and Justin Hurst; Rachel and Hamilton Kemp; Kim and Quincy Hurst; Robin and Darren Morrissey, Bret and Linda Petersen and 15 cousins who he adored. Shafer also leaves behind special friends who he loved dearly: Dr. Jana Martin, Bee Albright, Tina Moss, Haven Brady, LaQuita Aings, Gloria Newborn, Danah Allen, Ashley Bishop and Lindsey Scully.

Shafer was born on his Papa Jim’s birthday and had to spend a significant amount of time at Arkansas Children’s Hospital due to his health issues. Shafer was a fighter and endured more procedures, complications and surgeries than a child should have to. But Shafer should be remembered for the way he lived. Shafer loved deeply and was deeply loved by many. His laugh was contagious, his smile could brighten the darkest of days and his happiness was inspiring.

Shafer was non-verbal but spoke volumes with his facial expressions and big blue eyes. Shafer was non-mobile and couldn’t easily move his body but moved everyone who knew him with his immense love and happiness.

Shafer delighted in being outdoors, especially on the boat. With the sun on his face, the wind in his hair and a huge smile on his face, he was happiest when he was outside. He loved the lake, the beach and the desert. Shafer always enjoyed a party – birthday party, holiday celebration, dance party – if it had fun, friends and music then he was ready to have a great time! He loved visiting the Garland County Library whose staff became friends who not only made physical space for him and his wheelchair but also created an inclusive space for him to join and enjoy. He attended First Step School and was a proud graduate of Lakeside High School where his classmates fondly called him King Shafer. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and attended the Open Arms Sunday school class and never missed a Vacation Bible School.

He will be missed by so many but may his legacy be one of love. Shafer’s love and legacy will be celebrated on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Gross Funeral Home, 120 Wrights Street in Hot Springs with a visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Memorials to Shafer’s favorite places can be made to: Garland County Library, Arkansas Children’s Hospital or First United Methodist Church.