Helen Schafer of Brighton, IL passed away peacefully on Friday, March 29th, at the age of 92. She was born on November 30, 1931, in Alton, IL and was the daughter of James E. and Mabel (Houghton) Lagemann. She married the love of her life, David L. Schafer on April 12, 1953. They began their married life in Champaign Urbana where she worked as a secretary while her husband served in the National Guard. Together she and her husband returned to Brighton to begin farming. Her greatest pleasure came when she spent time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Through the years she stayed busy raising her family, as well assisting her husband with the day-to-day operation of the farm. She was a long-time member of St. John's UCC church. She enjoyed teaching and sharing her love of crafts during bible school and during Sunday School classes. As well she was a devoted member of the Women's Fellowship group where she served as President for many years. She will be long remembered for her famous cherry pies that were served at various church functions. For over 20 years Helen and her husband co-led the Brighton Farm Hands 4-H Club. In addition, she served on the Macoupin County 4-H Foundation Board and the Macoupin County Porkettes.
Surviving are her four children: Janet Saxton of Brighton, Wayne (Lori) Schafer of Brighton, Ann (Dave) Rempfer of Elgin, IL and Sue (Rork) Swisher of St. Charles, MO. Eight grandchildren: Melanie King, Blake Brandt, Sabrina Keck, Katelyn Keck, Lexy Schafer, Kye Swisher, Serena Frey, and Karlie Swisher, 3 great grandchildren; Liam King, Avery Brandt, and Addy Brandt.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband David Schafer, son-in-law Joe Saxton and grandsons, Scott King and Grant Schafer. A private service will be held at St. John's UCC, Brighton with burial at Brighton Cemetery. The family request in lieu of flowers memorials be given to either St. John's UCC, Brighton or Macoupin County 4-H. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com