James ‘Jim’ C. Schafer

James “Jim” C. Schafer, 87, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026 at his home.

Jim was born in Poseyville, Indiana on October 20, 1938 to the late Cassius L. and Jeannette Cavett Schafer. He was a 1956 graduate of Poseyville High School. Jim honorably served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1961. Afterwards, he began his work career at Shane Uniform Company and later retired from Keller Crescent after 24 years of service.

Jim was a gifted, self‑taught woodworker who took great pride in designing and building custom furniture. His craftsmanship brought beauty and purpose to every piece of custom furniture he created. He had a deep love for animals and gave generously of his time to several Evansville animal shelters and dog parks, assisting with fundraising efforts and community outreach programs.

Jim also found great joy in the outdoors and was passionate about skiing, running, hiking and camping. As dedicated runner, Jim participated in and won numerous 5K and 15K runs throughout the tri-state area, consistently logging more than 1,000 miles each year, embracing the challenge and joy the sport brought him. He was a familiar face at cross‑country and track events throughout Vanderburgh County, where he volunteered regularly and enthusiastically supported local athletes.

An avid camper, Jim and his wife spent countless hours exploring state parks across Indiana, Michigan, and Mississippi, finding comfort in the quiet beauty and serenity of nature. Among the many places they visited, his most cherished destinations were Sleeping Bear State Park, MI and McCormick’s Creek State Park, IN, where they were joined with beloved family creating lifelong memories.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Teresa (Willett) Schafer of Evansville, IN; daughters, Elizabeth Schafer of Bay Saint Louis, MS and Allison Grace Luther and spouse Adam Luther of Bothell, WA; and grandchildren, Eleanor, Simon and George; and good friend, Jerry Arman.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and is the last of his siblings, sisters, Marinette Taylor and Ann Lee Jochim and brother, Jean Schafer.

Services are pending for May 15.

Jim will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the National Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th St., Lincoln, Neb. 68508, It Takes a Village Rescue, 1417 Stockwell Road, Evansville, Ind. 47715 or the Vanderburgh Humane Society, PO Box 6711, Evansville, IN 47719.