Mary Jane Shafer

Mary Jane Noll Shafer, of Belcamp, MD died March 23, 2017. She was born in Port Jervis, NY and grew up traveling the world with her family as her father served in the U.S. Air Force. She received her AA from Vernon Court in Rhode Island and went on to attend Florida State University.

In 1961 at the age of 15 she met Joe Shafer; the young boy would become her best friend and later, husband. She was married to Joe, June 23, 1978 in Jacksonville, FL at The Church of the Nativity, officiated by Mrs. Shafer's father, The Reverend Joseph E Noll Jr.

Mrs. Shafer was a dedicated member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Abingdon, MD. Since 1991, Mrs. Shafer held various positions including Director of Religious Education, Youth Education Coordinator and member of the church vestry. Over the years her passion and love for children was constantly on display. She taught Sunday school and led the church's VBS program. She was an avid proponent of educating children in God's love. From 1991 to 2000 Mrs. Shafer was employed by the Harford County Public School system where she served as a substitute teacher for Bel Air middle and high schools. Mrs. Shafer previously worked with Holy Family House which later became Harford Family House. During her time with the non-profit she held various leadership positions.

She leaves behind her beloved husband Joe; her son Seamus Shafer and his wife Erica; her daughter Gabriella Taylor and her husband Eric; and her son Joe Shafer Jr. and his soon to be wife Heather. She also leaves behind a brother Joe Noll of Jacksonville, FL and brother In law Mike Bartlett of Solgohachia, AR. In addition, Mary Jane leaves behind her nephew Christopher Noll, niece Annie Vaughan and nephew Mathew Bartlett all of Jacksonville, FL. She leaves behind many beloved great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary's Episcopal Church Youth Fund in memory of Mary Jane Noll Shafer. Donations can be sent to, 1 St. Mary's Church Rd., Abingdon, MD 21009.