John Luther Shaffer Jr, 68, of Mechanicsville, MD died April 19, 2026. John was raised in Prince George's County, MD by the late Dorothy Ann and John Shaffer Sr. He was the devoted husband of the late Linda (Richards) Shaffer, Father to Jessica (Allan) Hayden and Sara Shaffer, and proud "Papa" to Lillian, Hunter, and John Bodie.

John proudly served as a firefighter in Prince George's County, MD for over 30 years, retiring in 2006. He also served with Walter Reed and District of Columbia Fire Departments prior to Prince George's.

In later life he moved to St. Mary's county, where he proudly ran a small T-shirt and sign business. This enabled him to donate back to the community sponsoring local sports, schools, and foundations. In keeping with John's generosity, he made the decision to donate tissue and organs so others may live.

An interwoven thread throughout all aspects of his life was his sense of humor. He is remembered for his legendary pranks at the firehouse and home. His stories and joke telling were endless. John thoroughly enjoyed the countless conversations with all who listened and kept in touch the past few years.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post #238 in Hughesville, MD on May 3, 2026 from 2-6pm.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made the following organizations:

Humane Society of Calvert County
https://humanesocietyofcalvertcounty.org/support-humane-society-of-calvert-county-donate-today/

DC Firefighters Burn Foundation
https://www.dcffburnfoundation.org/donate

International Association of Firefighters Foundation
https://iafffoundation.org/ways-to-help/