Thomas Michael Shaffer

Thomas Michael Shaffer of Athens, died on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at the age of seventy-one.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Louise Shaffer, grandparents, William Henry and Jessie Clyde Shaffer of Montgomery County, Mississippi, and aunt, Ruth Shaffer of Kilmichael, Mississippi.

The beloved son of the late Morris and Louise Shaffer, Michael was born on June 1, 1955 in Lucedale, Mississippi in George County, Mississippi to devoted parents.

Michael attended the University of Georgia school of Environmental Design with a degree in Landscape Architecture. After receiving his degree, Michael worked in creating hand drawn floor plans. Michael also enjoyed aspects of interior design. He was accomplished in color patterns and color matching and shared this talent with others. Michael was an artist and art lover and painted stunning canvases, as well as impressive pen and ink sketches of homes and landscapes. Michael loved spending his time landscaping his yard and garden. He was a business owner, co-owning and operating The Garden Gate in the Athens Five Points area. He was also a cat lover and had many faithful pets during his life that he cherished. Michael will be remembered for his sweet and gentle disposition. He never met anyone that he didn’t instantly connect with. Everyone became his family and he was always generous with his time and resources. His sense of humor and optimistic spirit will be missed.

Michael is survived by dear friends, David Hubbard (Brooke), Lori Dillard (Tommy), sweet neighbor, Silvia Arant, Gerri Bowdan, Gary McMillian, and countless other close friends and neighbors that Michael considered his extended family.

In lieu of a funeral or memorial service, Michael has asked that a plaque be placed in the Georgia State Botanical Gardens next to that of his parents' to honor him.

Those desiring to make a memorial donation in his memory are asked to donate to the Georgia State Botanical Gardens at Michael’s request. 

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, is in charge of arrangements.