Carolyn Louise Irwin Thomas Shaffer

Quincy

JAN. 21, 1949 – JUNE 13, 2026

Carolyn Louise Irwin Thomas Shaffer, 77, of Quincy, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2026 at her home in Quincy, IL.

Carol was born January 21, 1949, in Quincy, IL to Henry and Jesse (Baker) Irwin. She was married to Michael William Thomas and from this union two children were born. She later married Johnnie L. Shaffer on August 21, 1987 in LaGrange, MO. He preceded her in death on December 29, 2011.

Survivors include her three daughters, Kathy Renee Thomas, Angela Carol Thomas, and Lindsay Lee Shaffer; eight grandchildren, Ashlyn Gerding (Kevin), Alecia Altgilbers (Colby), Colby Brassfield, Gage Hagen (Marley), Jayde Hagen, Shayne Graham, Ava Shaffer, and Avery Johnnie Shaffer; seven great-grandchildren, Harper, Camree, and Wrenley Gerding, Callie, Lakelynn, and Mayze Hagen, and Ruby Altgilbers; one sister, Delores Gunterman of Charleston, SC; and her standard poodle, Beau.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and a special sister in-law, Hilda.

Carol graduated from Quincy High School in 1967. Over the years, Carol worked in several places and touched many lives through her dedication and steady presence. She first worked at the Motorola factory, then spent 10 years serving as a ward clerk for St. Mary’s Hospital and Blessing Hospital. She later bartended at Stubby’s Tavern, where her friendly nature and easy conversation were appreciated by many. Carol eventually found her calling as the director of childcare services at St. Dominic School, where she served for many years before retiring.

Outside of her work, Carol enjoyed a life filled with simple pleasures and favorite pastimes. She enjoyed shopping and loved to browse, taking her time to look around and enjoy the experience. She was happiest when traveling and made many memorable trips to Branson, Lake of the Ozarks, Nashville, and Mackinac Island. At home, if the television was on, she was likely watching her soap operas or cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. She enjoyed dining out, with Sprouts and Elders among her favorite places to eat. Music was another joy in her life, and she especially loved listening to Elvis, Garth Brooks, Fleetwood Mac, and Foreigner. Carol also liked spending time at the casino boat in Burlington, where she enjoyed playing slots and sharing good times with those around her.

Above all else, Carol loved her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around her.

Friends and Family are invited to a visitation that will be Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 10:00 am Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Deacon Harry Cramer will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Pallbearers will be Billy John Sterns, Bill Brassfield, Colby Brassfield, Gage Hagen, Jayde Hagen, Shayne Graham, Kevin Gerding, and Colby Altgilbers.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Dominic Church or the Quincy Humane Society.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.