Connie Shaffer

Connie Jean Ritchie Shaffer left her MS-ridden body on Saturday, October 8, 2016. She was born in Parkersburg, WV on October 3, 1948 to Dale and Betty Ritchie. In honoring her wishes, a private family service will be held Tuesday, October 11, 2016. Connie was married to her husband Dick Shaffer on November 19, 1965. Together, they had three children Lisa, Laura, and Richie. They also had seven wonderful grandchildren: Dakota Ryan Shaffer and Laken Danielle Shaffer (Richie and Stephanie); John “Gage Ryder”, Mason Lee Ryder, and McKenna Dayle Ryder (Laura and John); McKenzie Dawn Hamer and Braden “Brady” Burke (Lisa). She is also survived by her husband of almost 51 years Dick Shaffer, brothers Mike and Calvin Ritchie and sister Jane Friedmann, sisters in law Emma Alexander, Janie Tackett, and Audrey Landfried. Connie was a member of the Calhoun County High School Class of 1966 and of the Prosperity Baptist Church in Big Springs, WV. She was preceded in death by her father Dale Ritchie, her mother Betty Ritchie, a brother Doug Ritchie, and her granddaughter McKenzie Dawn. Despite her affliction with Multiple Sclerosis, Connie was a loving wife and mother. She never let MS get in the way. At the beginning of her diagnosis, Connie continued to provide for and love her family. As the disease progressed, and she was not able to physically attend, her love continued on and provided all with the comfort they so desperately needed. The family would like to thank all those responsible for the care of our wife and mother. Connie’s family would like to thank her personally for all of our life lessons. Dear Mom, You taught us how to face the storm no matter how bad. You taught us how to love and value the little things. Most of all you taught us courage and strength. Mom we love you so much and will continue our life’s journey with you always in our hearts. Even though we miss you tremendously, we are comforted in the fact that you are with loved ones and no longer a prisoner of your own body. We lost many years with you but gained so much more. MS is a cruel disease but it was not able to rob us of our precious memories and your famous quotes: “Oh, sh**t Connie, Oh s**t Richie, D**n it Lisa Dawn, Where’s your blanket Laura Leigh, and Go get a switch…”. We hope you dance. We Love You, Dick, Lisa, Laura, and Richie In lieu of flowers please donate to the Multiple Sclerosis foundation of your choosing. Waybright Funeral Home, Ripley is serving the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com