Shaffer Funeral Home - Bronte Obituaries

Shaffer Funeral Home - Bronte: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located in the heart of Bronte, Texas, Shaffer Funeral Home has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families navigating the most difficult times. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing exceptional care and support to those who need it most.

A History of Service and Dedication

Established with a mission to serve the community with dignity and respect, Shaffer Funeral Home has been a cornerstone of Bronte's social fabric for generations. The funeral home's founders were driven by a passion to provide compassionate care to families during their darkest hours, and this legacy continues to this day. With a team of dedicated professionals who are deeply rooted in the local community, Shaffer Funeral Home is more than just a funeral home – it's a trusted friend and neighbor.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Jerry McCutchen - January 09, 1943 - January 10, 2024

Departed: 01/10/2024 (Bronte)

Obituary Preview: Jerry Mack McCutchen peacefully passed away at his home on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, in Abilene, TX following a long, courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born Jan 9, 1943, in Bronte, Tx to Luther and Eula Maud McCutchen.

After graduation from Bronte High School and a couple of years working in the oilfield, Jerry enrolled at Hardin-Simmons University on a football scholarship and pursued a degree in education. He enjoyed a decorated teaching, coaching and administrative career with over 30 years of service with Abilene ISD. He was a beloved staff member at Madison Junior High, Cooper High School and Project Pass. Jerry was known for his steadfast integrity, strength of character, welcoming presence, and principled leadership.

In recreation, Jerry was the ultimate competitor. In his early years, he played football, basketball, baseball, golf, fast-pitch softball and ran track. He has relayed stories of his will to win being displayed in them all. He always enjoyed hunting, working horses, and all sports, especially golf. He also never passed up a game of 42 or straight dominoes. Despite his competitive nature, his greatest thrills came from spending time with family and friends.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife of sixty-one years, Bette McCutchen. In addition, he leaves behind sons Terry McCutchen and wife Carol, and Johnathan and wife Lana, of Abilene. Jerry was blessed with four grandchildren, Alyssa Ballard, and husband Dalin, Brandon McCutchen and wife Devan, Lilly Rhodes and husband Orel, and Ada McCutchen plus one great-grandchild, Bexley McCutchen. Survivors also include siblings Marlon McCutchen, Rita Abbott, Harold McCutchen and wife Gina and Keith McCutchen and wife Vicky as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Luther, and Eula Maud McCutchen.

Friends are invited to visit with the family 6-8pm, Friday, January 19, 2024, at Elmcrest Baptist Church 517 N Pioneer Dr, Abilene, TX 76903. Funeral services will be held the following day, 10am, Saturday, January 20, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Bronte 424 S Washington St, Bronte, TX 76933 with Pastor Corey Cornutt officiating.

Honoring the family by serving as pallbearers are Tobin Abbott, Sterling Abbott, Eddie Moore, Jay Moore, Kevin Spiller, Kelly Spiller, Tim Abbott and Kyle Abbott.

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Martin Needham Lee - June 22, 1938 - October 10, 2023

Departed: 10/10/2023 (Bronte)

Obituary Preview: Martin Needham Lee, a lifelong resident of Bronte, Texas, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was 85 years old. Martin was born on June 22, 1938, in Ballinger, Texas, to Hurlin Dewitt Lee and Eula Verne Nixon.

Martin was raised on his family's ranch in Coke and Runnels counties and continued to ranch for the entirety of his life. Growing up, Martin raised and showed Rambouillet sheep, winning Grand Champion at the San Angelo Stock Show. Also, during this time, he played football and track. In 1956 he graduated from Bronte High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Ann McCutchen Lee, in Bronte on April 21, 1957. Martin and Patricia had three children: Lisa Gayle Lee, Sheila Ann Lee, and Stephen Martin Lee.

Martin was a true entrepreneur. He was involved in real estate sales and investments, oil and gas operations, general building construction and in land development. He built many residential and commercial properties in Bronte and surrounding communities. Through his oil and gas work he received “Boss of the Year” on two different occasions from the San Angelo Desk and Derrick Club.

In 1962 he established his San Angelo-based ranch real estate firm that has grown into Lee, Lee & Puckitt Associates, Inc. He made a name for handling large ranch transactions with integrity and attention to detail, primarily in West Texas and New Mexico. Each real estate deal was the most important to him, and he had many clients who became lifelong friends. Martin treasured each of these friendships.

Martin was known for his servant's heart, dedicating countless hours to helping those in need. He was a longtime member and supporter of the Bronte Methodist Church, serving in many capacities. He was a member of the Masons, the Eastern Star,the Scottish Rite and the Shriner organizations. He was a multi-faceted individual with numerous accomplishments. One of his greatest privileges was serving on the Board of the Howard College Foundation for twenty-six years where he received a well-deserved Honorary Degree for his invaluable work. He was also appointed to a number of State Committees by several Governors. Martin served on the Upper Colorado River Authority Board of Directors, Concho Valley Regional Review Committee, and the Texas State Historical Survey Committee,all for several terms.

Martin's dedication to the community for the betterment of Bronte included serving as Mayor of the city for eighteen years,the city council for eight years and the Bronte Economic Development Board. He served as past President of all of the following: Bronte ISD School Board, Coke County Appraisal Board, Coke County Jaycees, Bronte Lions Club and Bronte Chamber of Commerce, wherein he was also named “Citizen of the Year”.

Spending time with family and friends in Ruidoso, New Mexico, where he had a vacation home for over thirty years, was another one of Martin’s favorite activities. He enjoyed going to the mountains and cooling off during the hot Texas summers! He spent most of his time in Ruidoso sitting on the deck watching wildlife, attending the horse races, playing golf and eating out at local restaurants.

His greatest love was reserved for his family. He shared a deep and enduring love with his wife of more than sixty-six years, Patricia Lee. They loved attending sporting events or any other activity of their grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren! His favorite pastime was going to “the country”. He found joy in hunting and fishing with the grandsons and feeding the cattle and sheep. His boundless energy and constant activity served as an inspiration to all who knew him, a testament to his unwavering commitment to putting one foot in front of the other.

Martin was preceded in death by his parents, Hurlin Dewitt Leeand Eula Verne Nixon. Martin leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Patricia Lee; three children Lisa Lee Curnutt of Fort Worth, Sheila Lee Graf and husband Mike of Salado,Stephen Lee and wife Molly of Cisco; nine grandchildren Alexander Curnutt of Grapevine, Sterling Curnutt of Houston, Tiffany Coulter Lange and husband Chris of Blackwell, Chase Coulter and wife Corinne of Magnolia, Kelsey Boshears Swearingen and husband Steven of Flagler Beach, Florida, Jarrett Lee of Spicewood, Jordan Lee Gorell and husband Mike of Austin, Jacy Lee Wyers and husband Jake of Magnolia, and Katie Lee of Austin; six great-grandchildren Cambrey Lange Hardy and husband Doug of Bronte, Caitlin Lange of Lubbock, Cameron Coulter of Magnolia, Colin Coulter of Magnolia, Archer Swearingen of Flagler Beach, Florida, Jenna Wyers of Magnolia; two great-great-grandchildren Bauer Hardy of Bronteand Brecklyn Hardy of Bronte; and brother Tom Lee and wife Elaine of San Angelo; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation in remembrance of Martin Lee will be held from 5 pm to 7 pm on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at the Bronte Methodist Church fellowship hall in Bronte. A funeral service celebrating his life will follow the next day, Monday, October 16, 2023, at 2 pm, at the Bronte Methodist Church. Following the service, Martin will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Bronte.

Martin Lee's memory will forever shine as a beacon of love, dedication, and humble service to all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering commitment that will continue to inspire generations to come. Martin Needham Lee will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

The family requests donations be made to Bronte Methodist Church, PO Drawer D, Bronte, Texas 76933, brontemethodistchurch.org or Hospice of San Angelo, 1933 University Avenue, San Angelo, TX 76904.

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Chester Callan Carter - August 30, 1941 - August 28, 2023

Departed: 08/28/2023 (Bronte)

Obituary Preview: Chester Callan Carter, age 81, of Blackwell, Texas, passed away Monday, August 28, 2023. Mr. Carter was born August 30, 1941, in Rotan, Texas to Ervin Clay and Martha Idella (Summers) Carter. He graduated from Snyder High School in 1959. Chester married Patsy Ann (Hogue) Carter on September 24, 1969. Together, they raised six children. He worked for many years at Dowell and then attended college at Texas State Technical College in Waco, Texas, studying civil engineering. A man of action, Chester derived immense satisfaction from maintaining his home, yard, and vehicles. He took pride in his work, ensuring that everything under his care was well-tended. Beyond his responsibilities, Chester was an avid golfer who reveled in the game. Whether he was playing or simply enjoying the sport as a spectator, his love for golf was unmistakable. As the sun set on his years, Chester's heart expanded to embrace love and warmth. He freely offered hugs and declarations of affection, often sharing his sentiment with a simple, "I love you." "Pawpaw" was a treasured role that Chester embodied with joy. He found happiness in distributing doublemint gum and witnessing the growth and accomplishments of his numerous children and grandchildren. His faith was unwavering, as he walked the path of a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Chester Callan Carter leaves behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, and a deep love for the simple joys in life. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jo Ann (Scheile) Carter, his wife Patsy Carter, his son Russell Carter, and his brothers, Ervin Carter Jr., Johnny Carter and Robert Carter. He is survived by his son, Garry Mensch and Kayla Mindhardt of Arizona, daughter, Rebecca Kelly and husband Jimmy of Brownwood, Ben Carter of Sweetwater, daughter-in-law Dottie Carter of Waco, Steven Carter and wife Marcia of Waco and Scott Carter and wife Carrie of Dallas; grandchildren, Jennie, Justin, Katie, John, Brian, Sabrina, Kyle, Stephanie, Jillian, Stacy, Hannah, Morgan, Kendra, Andrew, Isaiah, and Emma; great-grandchildren, Mercedes, Jasonah, IJ, Eric, Christian, Simon, Dillon, Hayden, Jesse, Tristan, Dane, Gabby, Joanna Andrew, Avery, Clementine, Ruby, John, Charlie, Libby, Teagen, JJ, Kaysen, Zayden, Laynie, Emery, Carolina, Warren, Barrett, Hayes, Hartley, and Callie Jean; great great grandson, Adam; brother Bill Carter; sisters-in-law Marilyn Carter, Linda Walker, Judy Bruno, and Cliffa Hogue and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A graveside service followed by burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Blackwell Memorial Cemetery. Preacher Russ Frasier of Forgiven Ministries will be officiating. The visitation will be at Oak Hall, Sweetwater, Texas immediately after the service. Honorary pallbearers are Chesters grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Memorials may be made to Bronte Longhorn Golf Club or your local church.

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A Commitment to Personalized Service

At Shaffer Funeral Home, every family is treated with the utmost respect and care. The staff understands that each person is unique, with their own story to tell and memories to cherish. That's why they take the time to listen, to understand, and to tailor their services to meet the specific needs of each family. From traditional funerals to cremations, memorial services, and celebrations of life, Shaffer Funeral Home offers a wide range of options to honor your loved one in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

The Shaffer Funeral Home facility is designed to provide a warm and welcoming environment for families and friends to gather, share stories, and celebrate the life of their loved one. With ample parking, comfortable seating areas, and state-of-the-art amenities, the funeral home is equipped to accommodate large or small gatherings with ease. The facility is also fully accessible, ensuring that all guests can participate comfortably.

Caring Professionals You Can Trust

The staff at Shaffer Funeral Home is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to their craft. From licensed funeral directors to bereavement counselors, every team member is committed to providing exceptional care and support throughout the entire funeral planning process. They understand that losing a loved one is never easy, and they're here to guide you every step of the way.

Pre-Planning Services for Peace of Mind

While it may seem difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can bring immense peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. At Shaffer Funeral Home, their pre-planning services allow you to make informed decisions about your final arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary stress. By pre-planning, you can also lock in costs at today's prices, avoiding future inflation.

A Network of Support Beyond the Funeral

Grief is a journey that doesn't end with the funeral service. At Shaffer Funeral Home, they recognize that families need ongoing support and guidance as they navigate the healing process. That's why they offer a range of aftercare services, including grief counseling, support groups, and online resources. Their goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where families can find comfort, connection, and healing.

A Community Partner You Can Count On

Shaffer Funeral Home is deeply invested in the Bronte community, partnering with local organizations and charities to make a positive impact on the lives of its residents. Through their involvement in community events, educational initiatives, and outreach programs, the funeral home demonstrates its commitment to building stronger relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.

Contact Us: Your Trusted Resource in Times of Need

If you're facing the loss of a loved one or simply want to plan ahead for the future, Shaffer Funeral Home is here to help. With their compassionate staff, beautiful facilities, and commitment to personalized service, you can trust that you're in good hands. Contact them today to learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation at your convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It is often published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing important information to those who may want to attend the funeral or send condolences. They can also help to notify people who may not have been aware of the person's passing.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial service.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it is generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important information. Aim for 1-2 paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral homes allow you to upload photos of the deceased to accompany the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate their life and provide a visual tribute.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life is celebrated and remembered in the way they wish. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and legacy.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed and personalized tribute that celebrates the person's life and accomplishments.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for publication.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is not possible to make changes to an obituary once it has been published. Be sure to proofread carefully before submitting for publication.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time frame for publication varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some may publish immediately, while others may take several days or even weeks.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include meaningful quotes, lyrics, or poems in an obituary as a way to personalize and celebrate the person's life.

What if I don't know all of the details about the person's life?

If you're unsure about certain details, don't worry! You can still write a beautiful and meaningful obituary by focusing on what you do know about the person's life and personality.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to celebrate a person's life and personality. Just be sure to keep it respectful and tasteful.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or difficult aspects of the person's life that you're unsure how to address in the obituary, consider consulting with family members or a trusted friend for guidance.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes! Many people choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers as a way to honor the person's memory and continue their legacy.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary or need guidance, consider reaching out to a funeral home or professional writer for assistance. They can provide valuable support and expertise during this difficult time.

How do I share an online obituary with others?

You can share an online obituary via social media, email, or messaging apps. Many online platforms also provide a unique URL that can be shared with others.

Can I create a memorial page or website for the deceased?

Yes! Many online platforms offer tools and resources for creating memorial pages or websites where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration of availability varies depending on the online platform. Some may keep obituaries archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

What if I need to make corrections or updates to an online obituary?

Contact the online platform directly to request corrections or updates. They should be able to assist you with making changes.

Can I include links to other memorials or tributes in an online obituary?

Yes! Many online platforms allow you to include links to other memorials, tributes, or social media profiles as a way to further celebrate the person's life and legacy.

How do I ensure that an online obituary is accessible to everyone who wants to view it?

Make sure to share the link widely through social media, email, and other channels. You can also consider creating a private Facebook group or other online community where friends and family can share memories and condolences.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable writing an obituary yourself, consider asking a trusted friend or family member for assistance. Alternatively, you can reach out to a professional writer or funeral home for support.