Judith C. Shafer

Judith C. Shafer

Age 82, of Tyrone, passed away in the peace of her home on December 25, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

Born on May 20, 1943, in Portsmouth, NH, Judy was the cherished adopted daughter of the late Edward and Grace Crotty. She met her future husband, Harold Gordon Shafer Jr. while spending summers on Lamoka Lake. They were married in 1963;  their love forming for a loving family.

Together, Judy and Gordie raised two beloved daughters, Debbie (Jeff) Cupps of Pasadena, MD, and Beth (Thom) Woods of Lamoka Lake, NY. They are proud grandparents to three grandchildren, David, Jonathan, and Leah, and great-grandparents to three great-grandchildren, James, Eleanor, and Ava Marie Grace. Each of them carries a piece of Judy's vibrant spirit and warmth.

Judy dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her family while also serving as a Pastoral Assistant at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen for many years. Her compassion extended beyond her family. She was actively involved in her community through the Stephen Ministry and as a devoted 4H Leader, where she inspired countless young people.

Judy spent her days cooking, canning, reading, gardening, and enjoying the beauty of nature first in Elmira, later on the homestead in Altay and finally on Lamoka Lake. She embraced each moment with grace and gratitude, leaving a legacy of love and kindness to all who knew her.

A time for remembrance and celebration of Judy's life will take place at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, on Friday, January 2nd, from 4 PM to 6 PM. A Funeral Mass honoring her life will be celebrated at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY, on Saturday, January 3rd, at 11:00 AM, followed by her burial at Tyrone Union Cemetery.  Memorial donations in her memory may be made to her church.  

The family invites those who wish to share their condolences and memories to visit her obituary guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Your kind words will provide comfort during this difficult time.