Ray Eugene Shaeffer, 74, of Leeton, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 7th, 2026, at St. Lukes hospital.

Ray was born October 1, 1951, in Windsor, Missouri. He grew up in Leeton, where he built a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and grit.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth "Jake" Shaeffer, and his mother, Freida Stevens Shaeffer.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Betty (Stout) Shaeffer, to whom he was married for nearly 50 years, with their anniversary to be celebrated this coming May; his only son Brad Shaeffer and wife Raven (Sivils) Shaeffer, his grandchildren Taylor, Ally, and Camdyn Shaeffer, his sisters Carole Harris and Penny Holbert; along with extended family and friends who knew him well.

After turning 18, Ray worked for the Lynde Family Farms for many years. He later spent 28 years working for Central Missouri State University (UCM), retiring after decades of dedicated service. Retirement didn't slow him down- he went on to work for Fischer Concrete, where he stayed until September 2025, proving that "retired" was really just a suggestion.

Ray enjoyed riding mules, running his skid loader, fishing, hunting, and building fence. He built more fence on 25 acres than anyone else in the country - something he was quietly proud of. He was often known for being stubborn, but those who loved him knew it came from a place of determination and strength.

One of Ray's greatest joys was time spent with his son, Brad, whether working side by side or simply being together. He also cherished time with his grandchildren, especially when they would stop down at his shop - where there was always a chore to help with, something to show them, and usually a lesson being taught whether they asked for one or not. These moments with his son and grandchildren meant more to him than he ever said.

A Celebration of life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 4:00p.m., at Lynde Farms, located at 527 SE 1000th Rd., Leeton, MO 64761

Ray will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever appreciated. If there's fencing to be done wherever he is, everyone else is already behind schedule.

Flowers and contributions may be left in the care of Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home