James Richard Sheaffer, 77, of Lewistown, passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital.

Born February 4, 1948, in Lewistown, he was the son of the late James H. and Bernice G. (Quay) Sheaffer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Marie D. Sheaffer (Knecht) and a brother, Robert Sheaffer.

He is survived by daughters, Carolyn Fisher and husband, Stephen, of Columbia, MD, and Katherine Vocke and husband, Stephen, of Roanoke, TX; grandchildren Ellie and Micah; eight step-children and 13 step-grandchildren; and a brother Michael Sheaffer and wife, Linda, of Centre Hall.

Jim was a 1966 graduate of Bellefonte High School where he excelled in sports, especially basketball.

He was a proud United States Army Veteran who served two tours in Vietnam.

Jim was a member of VFW Post 1600 in Bellefonte, the American Legion Post 867 in Pleasant Gap, and the Bellefonte Moose Lodge No. 206.

He worked for the F.B.I. in Washington D.C., he was a Deputy Sherriff in Prince George County, MD, and he worked as a corrections officer at the State Correctional Institution - Rockview where he retired.

Jim loved going camping, especially at the Grange Fair. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and playing cards with friends. He was a Penn State fan and was a former Booster member for Lady Lions basketball, often traveling to away games with his wife Marie.

A public graveside service will be held at 1p.m., Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Church Hill Cemetery in Reedsville with military honors provided by Juniata County Veterans Association.  Following the service, family and friends are invited to attend an informal memorial gathering at Kish Park in Lewistown (green pavilion).

Arrangements are under the care of Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Home, 200 N. Main St., Lewistown.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com