Published on February 6, 2026 1:31 pm
Last Updated on February 6, 2026 1:31 pm
Stephen “Steve” Ben Shafer, 78, passed away at 9:28 pm on Thursday February 5, 2026, at Willow Breeze Hospice House in Mattoon.
Per Steve’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and there will be no services held. Barkley Funeral Chapel in Greenup is assisting the family.
He was born March 4, 1947, to S. Frank and Frances (Devall) Shafer. He lived his whole life in Jewett buying his grandparents, Ben and Jessie Shafer’s place in 1979. He was a 1965 graduate of Cumberland High School and a graduate of DeVry Technical School of Chicago. He worked at Curtis Harvestore in Effingham. He later farmed with his mom and dad and became a rural mail carrier of the Jewett/Greenup routes before retiring after 35 years. He continued to farm and was a gifted horseman enjoying all aspects of buying, selling, breaking, and riding horses. At present, he had a mule, PJ (Perfect Jackass), and a constant companion Roscoe, riding with him on his side-by-side and faithfully guarding his owner. He enjoyed riding motorcycles. He traveled several years to Eminence, MO riding his horses, and traveled to Arizona for several years. He has a “to do list” always on his plate. Steve enjoyed a good buy at any auction or flea market. In his younger years, he was an avid softball player and was always willing to help and assist his neighbors.
Surviving a son, Chris (Mindy) Shafer, daughter Lisa (Brandon) Grzechowiak, siblings Connie (Alvin) Kingery, and Scott (Jan) Shafer; his extended family; special friend Tammie Sharp, Cory (Kennedy), Swayze, Isley, and Auzzie Sharp, Jerrod, Geoff and Joshua Sharp-Young.
He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as one sister and brother-in-law Carol and Dick Bridges.
A special thank you to Willow Breeze Hospice House for the exceptional care given to Steve.
Memorial donations may be made to donor’s choice. Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com