James Edward Shafer, 40, of Cahokia, Illinois, died on December 23, 2019, at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. He was born January 20, 1979, in Alton, Illinois, and worked as a self-employed stereo system installer and home health care worker. Family remembered him for a generous heart, a love of cooking, and a passion for weight lifting and bodybuilding.

He was survived by his parents, Loretta Fay Harris and Ronald Edward Shafer Sr., and 11 siblings: William Owens, Kimberly Harris, Ronda West, Veronica Dinges, Edward Shafer, Holly Shafer, Heather Groetecke, Ronald Shafer Jr., Albert Shafer, Rachel Mormino, and Ian Shafer. He was preceded in death by his son, James Edward Shafer Jr., and his step-father, Steven Harris. Memorial services were held January 8, 2019, at Wojstrom Funeral Home & Crematory in Granite City, Illinois, and memorials were requested to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

No foul play, arrests, suspects, or investigations were reported; available notices focused on his life and family. If anyone knew James or has memories to share, what can be added about his life in the community?