Flora Murphy Shaffer

Flora Murphy Shaffer was born January 27,1943 in Maxton, N.C., a farming community. She was the eldest daughter of Venson and Sadie Murphy, a WWII/Korean War veteran and a Homemaker. She grew up in an environment that instilled the values of hard work and dedication. Flora excelled academically and chose Wilberforce University over numerous other institutions. As a full scholarship recipient, Flora took advantage of this opportunity by earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in comprehensive science.

Upon leaving Wilberforce, Flora became a wife and young mother through her former union with Otha L. Shaffer (deceased). She always sought to balance family responsibilities with her professional life. Flora started what would be a 30 plus year career with the Federal Government by entering the Federal Service Entrance Exam (FSEE) program with the Department of Defense. She strove to get the most out of life with her talents, skills and know-how. This determination led her into the private sector for almost four years in the field of sales and marketing, with a little insurance on the side. Her successes were highlighted in Jet Magazine (November 28,1974 edition) under notable “People”. Flora returned to Federal employment with the Veteran’s Administration before joining the Government Services Administration (GSA) in 1980.

At GSA, Flora’s continued quest to be the best version of herself led to eventually retiring as the Great Lakes Regional Director of Information Technology in 2001. In this role, Flora was responsible for providing information technology support to federal agencies in six Great Lake states, which included the related workforce and over 100 government contractors. She was the first African American female in the Great Lakes Region to be promoted to the highest Federal pay level, GS 15; a history making event. This accomplishment was also highlighted in Jet Magazine (February 21, 2000 edition).

Flora had many affiliations and passions, and she wore the advertisement for each one often on a tee shirt, hat or jacket. She was a life member of the Wilberforce University Alumni Association and former Board member, as well as the Membership Chairman of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Inter-Alumni Council/UNCF. She was a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc (initiated into the Zeta Chapter in 1963 at Wilberforce University). Her service and commitment to the sorority was truly a source of pride and joy. She held her relationship with her Soror’s in high esteem and cherished the fellowship.

Flora’s recreational passions included more than a dozen cruises. Her love for the water was evident in being a former boat owner and former member of the Museum Shores Yacht Club in Chicago. She was a lifelong bowler and belonged to several leagues up until her passing. You might have also seen her occasionally at the Boulder Casino…occasionally.

A visitation for Flora will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Palm Mortuary - Downtown, 1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A funeral service will occur Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St James the Apostle Catholic Church, 1920 N Martin L King Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89106. A committal service will occur Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery, 1325 N Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101.