Gerald "Gerry" Schafer

Gerald “Gerry” Schafer passed away peacefully in his home in Greensboro, North Carolina on July 8, 2022 at age 77. Gerry was born and raised in Mount Airy, NC to Isidor and Bessie Schafer as the youngest of three children, after sister Harriet (d.) and brother Freddie (d.). He enjoyed an idyllic childhood living next door to his cherished grandmother, Rosa, and surrounded by friends, family, and his treasured dog, Lady. He maintained a presence in his beloved hometown throughout his entire life.

He was an engaged, lifelong member of the Jewish communities in Winston-Salem and Greensboro and took pride in his family’s role in establishing strong Jewish roots in both cities. A passionate golfer, Gerry picked up his first club at age 3 and was a proud member of Sedgefield Country Club for 46 years. He also enjoyed fishing, World War II history, and being with his beagles.

A Tar Heel “Born and Bred,” Gerry completed his undergraduate and law degrees at UNC-Chapel Hill. He also proudly served as a medic in the Army in the 422nd Civil Affairs Unit. Gerry met the love of his life, Linda Brandwein Schafer, on a blind date set up by his sister, Harriet, in Chicago. After their 1973 wedding, they moved to Greensboro where he started his law practice which he maintained for over 50 years. Gerry devoted his practice of bankruptcy law to supporting his clients through their personal financial challenges and helping them establish stability and a fresh start.

Gerry and Linda loved to travel, particularly to Ireland where Gerry joked he would visit the “O’Schafers.” Though Gerry traveled extensively, he was happiest when he landed back in his native Tar Heel State. He never met a stranger and described himself as “a man of few words but many sentences.”

He is survived by his wife, Linda, of 49 years and daughters Heather Schafer (Adam Van Stedum), Katherine Schafer Ravan (Brook Ravan), grandchildren Lucy and Sidney Ravan, beagle, Mr. Wicklow, and an extensive community of friends whose lives he touched.

A Memorial Service will be held at Temple Emanuel, 1129 Jefferson Rd, Greensboro, NC at 11:00am on Tuesday, July 12th followed by a graveside service at the Hebrew Cemetery, 2911 W. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to AuthoraCare Collective Hospice https://www.authoracare.org/give, SECU House at UNC-Chapel Hill https://www.secufamilyhouse.org/donate, or the Alzheimer’s Association https://www.alz.org/?form=alz_donate

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageGreensboro.com for the Schafer family.