Genevieve McClure Schafer

Genevieve McClure Schafer, 88, of Fourth Street, lifelong resident Marietta, passed away at 12:45 pm on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at Harmar Place after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born on June 10, 1922, in Marietta a daughter of Walter W. and Rosa Strehle McClure.  She was a graduate of Marietta High School and along with her husband, Jim, owned and operated McClure-Schafer Funeral Home.  After Jim’s passing, Genevieve continued at the funeral home until her health prevented her involvement. 

Genevieve was a long time active member of Christ United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School, organized the Junior Church Program and served on many committees.  She was a gifted musician and played the piano and organ for many local churches as well as the funeral home.  She was very interested and active in the Washington County Humane Society (now the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley) for over 25 years and along with her husband, Jim, was instrumental in building the current facility.  For many years, she provided funds for the treatment of sick animals for owners who did not have the means.   She had traveled to China and the Holy Lands and enjoyed presently programs on her adventures.  She had served on the Corporate Board for the Betsey Mills Club for many years, was a member of the Lady Civitan Club, Friends of the Library, YMCA Y-Men’s Club and many other organizations in the community that she loved.  Genevieve was very generous to all people and animals.

On June 10, 1944 she married James A. Schafer who preceded her in death on August 19, 1999.  She is survived by her sister, Frances Smith, niece Connie Monat,  nephew Kevin Smith, 3 great nephews and her friends at the funeral home.  She was preceded in death by her sisters Naomi and Jean McClure and her parents.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday (March 23rd) at 10:00 am at Christ United Methodist Church with burial following in Mound Cemetery.  Friends may call at McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home on Tuesday beginning at 2:00pm and at the church after 9:00 am on Wednesday. Donations in her memory are requested to the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley, P O Box 5, Marietta.