Barry Shaffer

Barry Edward Shaffer, 77, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at Ashtabula Regional Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family.

 Born on October 20, 1948, in Somerset, Pennsylvania, Barry was the son of Ralph and Ruby (Bowman) Kelly. He was a proud graduate of the Edgewood High School Class of 1967.

 Barry’s greatest joy in life was his family. He deeply cherished his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and found his truest happiness in the time they shared together. On September 11, 2008, he married Stacy Bright, and for seventeen wonderful years they built a marriage grounded in laughter, devotion, faith and love. Together, they created countless memories that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

 Barry’s passion for music was an essential part of who he was. A gifted and talented musician, he played for many years with Ron Cory and The Destinations, performing everything from country and rock and roll to the gospel music that became his heart’s song later in life. Whether on stage or at home, music was his way of connecting with people—it reflected his generous spirit and his joy in bringing others together.

 He worked at Molded Fiber Glass for more than 15 years before following his natural calling to care for others as a nurse’s aide in several local nursing facilities. His gentle heart and compassion left a lasting impression on those he helped each day.

 Barry was a member of the Ashtabula VFW and the Pentecostal Church of God. He loved the outdoors—fishing, hunting, and recalling his younger years on Greenhill Farm in Sheffield. In later years, his long snowy white beard made him a beloved “Santa Claus” at Christmas parades, community events, and family gatherings. His warm smile and love for children made the role a perfect fit.

 Above all, Barry believed that family was God’s greatest gift. He took great pride in each of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his love for them will forever be their guiding light.

 He is survived by his loving wife, Stacy Shaffer; his cherished children, Beth Ann (Dennis) Sabo, Candi Shaffer, Faye Shaffer, Johanna Murphy, Miranda (John Cartmell) Shaffer, Pam (Jeff) Braessler, and Tammy (Jeff) Davis; 20 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Barb (Chuck) Scott, Tracey (Bruce) Cory, Jeff (Suzie) Kelly, and Doug (Carrie) Kelly.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Donovan and Tyrone Shaffer; and his siblings Jim, Ron, Rodger, Audra Glessner, Ellen Dewitt, Ruth Schwartz, Linda Shaffer, Joann Shaffer, and Beth Ann Kelly.

 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Fleming–Billman Funeral Home, 49 West Jefferson St., Jefferson, Ohio. Calling hours will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Kenny Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in Brownsville Cemetery.

 Barry’s music, laughter, and unwavering love for his family will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

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