Thayer Cornell Shafer

Thayer Cornell Shafer, 90, passed away peacefully at his home in Sheridan, Wyoming, on October 31, 2026, with his son by his side.

Born in Ohio to Joseph Shafer and Emily Cornell Marine, Thayer shared a childhood of intellectual curiosity with his sister, Sue Shafer. His family resettled in New Hampshire, where Thayer later attended the University of New Hampshire- which held a special place in his heart and where he returned regularly for reunions. Starting a family in NH, Thayer leaves behind three sons, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. 

Thayer embraced a wide variety of paths across the nation and world in his lifetime. Thayer’s early career and passions took him to the ocean to learn, to explore and to play. He worked for various universities, including the University of Rhode Island’s Marine Advisory Service to advance marine studies. Between the coasts, Thayer took to the skies as a pilot, traveled cross-country in his camper, and enjoyed hiking, hunting and skiing the lands.

Thayer loved the art of conversation- always speaking without a timetable. He shared unspooled stories, uncovered histories and traced connections between people and places. He had a strong laugh that carried through walls, and strong opinions that held firm in his heart. 

Thayer’s personal compass was his late wife, Kathleen M. Shafer. Guided by her military career, he followed her around the country and world. Rather than staying anchored to one job or place, he mastered the art of fitting in wherever they landed – bringing natural curiosity, resourcefulness, and a knack for making himself useful in passions and intellect wherever they went. This resulted in a life not described best by career or a legacy of his family, but by a collection of stories, experiences and utterly unique skills. 

Thayer and Kathleen set their anchor down permanently in Sheridan, Wyoming. Sheridan became not only home but a community they treasured. They belonged to the First Presbyterian Church of Sheridan and Thayer served as a member of the community in many ways, including the City Council. Thayer was proud of his town and its future. Though health steered his path in various directions the past few years, his final road led home, where he peacefully passed on Saturday. Online condolences may be made to www.sheridanfuneral.com. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.