Jayne Schafer

Jayne Elizabeth Abbott Schafer, age 67, of Grand Rapids, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital after a sudden diagnoses of late stage cancer on Tuesday, August 25th. She was surrounded by family and friends, who will cherish their memories of her abundant spirit and passion for life.

Jayne was born in Grand Rapids, MI on May 19, 1953 to Jay C. and Eleanor (Lee) Abbott. She graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in 1971 and attended Central Michigan University. She completed a MA at Northeast Missouri State University in 1977, where she met her loving husband, Jim.

Upon returning to Michigan, she worked at the Woman’s Resource Center, where she found pride in advancing women in the workplace. She discovered a passion for the fiber arts and was an active member of the community both locally and nationally. She was a founding member of Art Makers, a select group who host an annual holiday exhibition. One of Jayne’s greatest joys was the weekly weaving class she hosted in her home studio for over 25 years, where her students so often became part of the family.

On June 24, 1978, Jayne married James Paul Schafer, enjoying 42 years with her devoted husband who survives her. Also surviving is her son Michael James Schafer, age 31 of Washington, DC and his partner Doug Crandall, as well as her sister, Margaret (Peg) Abbott, of Portal, AZ. Jayne deeply touched the lives of numerous people and will be remembered for her wisdom, generosity, and keen interest in community. Jayne was passionate about the Leelanau Peninsula, where she spent summers with her family and friends. A day with Jayne was a gift.

Memorial Contributions for those who wish: Gifts should be made to the Leelanau Conservancy at P.O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654, leelanauconservancy.org.

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