Linda L. Schafer

LINDA L. SCHAFER, 79, of Chester, Illinois, passed away at 10:03 am, Thursday, October 22, 2026 at her residence.

She was born to the late Roy and June (nee Ward) Baker on May 5, 1947 in Carlinville, Illinois.

Linda married Dwain Steele Schafer on April 9, 1966 in Abilene, Texas; he preceded her in death on January 30, 2012.

In 1971, Linda graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale summa cum laude. She was a Phi Beta Kappa key holder and was awarded a full fellowship.

After graduation she had taught some high school and helped with graduate research. Linda then owned her own early childhood education preschool, Schafer Child Care Center and taught for 45 years.

Linda was a very active member of First Baptist Church in Chester. She played the organ and piano, taught Sunday School, served on the church counsel, trustee committee, several search committees and was a choir director for both children and adults. Outside of the church, Linda served on the board for Chester tourism and beautification committee and was named Business Person of the Year in 2021.

Survivors:

   1 Daughter: 

        Krista Murphy (Fiance: Aaron Schultz) Chester, IL

   3 Brothers: 

        Charlie (Jeanette) Baker Carlinville, IL

        Rick (Brenda) Baker Lexington, IL 

        Dave Baker Havana, IL

   1 Grandson: 

        Brendan Patrick Murphy

   Many Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces, Great Nephews, Cousins and Friends

Preceded in Death by: Parents, Husband and 1 Son - David Ross Schafer

Funeral Service:

   11:00 am, Tuesday, October 27, 2026

   First Baptist Church, Chester, Illinois

Officiating:

   Dr. Mike Fogerson

Interment:

   Evergreen Cemetery

   Chester, Illinois

Visitation:

   Monday - 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

   Tuesday – 10:00 am – 11:00 am

   First Baptist Church, Chester, Illinois

Memorials:

   First Baptist Church, Chester, Illinois