Toni Marie Shafer

Toni Marie Shafer's journey on this Earth was one defined by family, love, dedication, integrity, and a profound appreciation for the sacredness of life. She wore many roles with grace and passion, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate to cross her path. 

 As a devoted wife and caring mother, Toni's love radiated through moments spent with her husband Steven, 4 daughters: Laci, Stevi (Tony), Stormi (David), and Destiny, 2 bonus children: Tina (Curt) and Jody (Monika), and many grandchildren. For 44 years, she stood side by side with her beloved husband, Steven Shafer, in a bond that was a testament to enduring love and an unwavering commitment to the vow of in good and bad times.

 Toni's professional journey led her to The Center of Hope, a nursing home in Union City, Indiana, where she dedicated over 30 years of her life. Her work was more than just a job; it was a calling that she embraced wholeheartedly. With compassion, empathy, intentionality and her presence, Toni provided impeccable care to the Center's patients, many of whom were navigating the final chapters of their lives. Her dedication to their well-being was nothing short of remarkable; a reflection of her deep understanding of the fragility and sanctity of human existence.

 Beyond her professional life, Toni had a "green thumb" with an unmatched talent for nurturing life and sustenance through gardening. Her hands could coax beauty and vibrancy from the earth, a talent that mirrored her ability to excel in just about everything she attempted. She found joy in word games like Scrabble and Words with Friends, effortlessly displaying her vast vocabulary to the chagrin of her opponents. Card games, puzzles, and yard games were not merely pastimes but opportunities for her to create bonds and memories with loved ones.

Toni's culinary prowess was legendary, as friends and family would eagerly anticipate her cookouts/family gatherings where her infamous peanut butter fudge and potato salad took center stage. Yet, her greatest joy came from having her husband, daughters and grandchildren gathered, their laughter and shared stories filling her heart with joy.

In a world often marked by selfishness and taking the easy way out, Toni stood as an embodiment of honesty, authenticity, and conviction. Her gift of self-awareness was often on display when she humbly discussed her own imperfections and areas of her life that she wished she could rectify.  Toni truly did her best to continually make the right decisions as evidenced by her choosing the path that was right for others over her own personal happiness and comfort.  Toni Marie Shafer never took the easy, selfish way out.  She never made excuses or played the victim card.  She truly did her best.  She knew she was far from perfect, but that she truly tried to always do the right thing.

Toni's quiet but resolute faith guided her through not only life's challenges, but in her final hours. As her time approached, a sense of finality was palpable and at times she was overcome with profound sadness.  Yet she held steadfast to her trust in an all-loving God and that her journey was leading her to a reunion with her Lord.  A Lord who would bind up her wounds, and one that cherished her beyond measure, imperfections and all. 

 Toni left us to be with the Lord after a year of fighting various health conditions.  She discovered she had pancreatic cancer only 8 days prior to being called home to our Lord.  While her pain was great, she was very strong, caring, and complimentary of those around her.  

Toni’s peace in her final days can only be attributed to her faith and the promise of her Lord’s own words from sacred scripture; "He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away." Rev 20; 1-4

Toni Marie Shafer leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived. She will forever be remembered as a shining example of the goodness and beauty that can be found in the world, a reminder that our actions can echo far beyond our time here, touching the lives of generations to come.  

Toni was preceded in death by her father Charles Ballard and her brother Chuck Ballard. Survivors include: her husband of 44 years Steve Shafer, her mother Barbara Hickey, siblings: Bobbi Lowe, Billy Hickey (Sharlyn),Matt Hickey, Beth Hannah Children: Laci Forsyth, Stevi Hardwick(Tony), Stormi Shafer (David), Destiny Shafer Bonus Children :Jody Shafer (Monika) and Tina Brooks (Curt) Toni was blessed with many grand/great grandchildren who think the world of their mamaw.

Visitation will take place on Monday August 21, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Reichard Funeral Home 400 W. Deerfield Road Union City, IN 47390. Private graveside services will take place at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ascension St. Vincent Hospital – Indianapolis Oncology Department.

Memories may be expressed online at www.reichardfh.com.