Magdalen "Maggie" Shaffer Potts

Magdalen Shaffer Potts, strong, beautiful, and the chief cornerstone of her family, was gathered into heaven on December 1, 2021 in Amherst, Ohio, at the age of 90.  Born the daughter of immigrants in the shadow of the Great Depression, she understood always that the value of life is not found in money or prestige but instead in virtue, service, and love.  With hard work and an indomitable spirit, she made a home and raised seven children.  She knew how to make something from nothing, and no matter the circumstance, she and her house were rich with welcome, with a cup of coffee for a friend, and with laughter, even in sadness.  Eyes twinkling with mischief, she grew pets and garden plants to an unreasonable size, and her love of God’s small, wild creatures belied a gentle soul.  No one who crossed her doorstep could leave without a bite of food.  Or a whole plate.  Or two.  

Known as Maggie to her friends, and as Mom to two daughters and five sons, service was her life’s calling.  She devoted herself to others and to God.  In the places where she lived and worked, she helped wherever she could and found herself surrounded by friends.  She gave selflessly and worked tirelessly to make the world a better place for the people around her.  Maggie saw the good in everyone, even those who could not see it in themselves.  Her hope for her children was a light that no darkness could dampen, and anyone who talked to her, even once, knew the strength of it.  She prayed for us all.  

Having lived a life made full by her family, Maggie is preceded in death by her parents, Mary and George Breznan; her first husband, Roy Shaffer; her children, Betty Hoffer and Paul Shaffer; her sisters Marie Moran and Mildred McCallister; her brothers, John, George, and Milan Breznan; and her second husband, Charles Potts.  She is survived by her children Robert Shaffer and his wife, Diane, Ira Shaffer, Roy Shaffer, Mary Lee and her husband Steven, David Shaffer and his wife, Christine, and many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved.  She will be missed, and her stories, recipes, and the memories of her spirited kindness will live on.  May we each carry forward her love. 

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 11 a.m. at North Lake Missionary Baptist Church, 323 North Lake St., South Amherst, Ohio.  Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to North Lake Missionary Baptist Church at the above address.

For those unable to attend please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.

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