James B. Shafter

Shafter ~ James Bernard “Scrooge” Shafter, 72, transitioned December 28, 2021.  Born August 9, 1949, in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, to the late Leroy and Minnie Lee Shafter, he attended Jacksonville Beach Elementary School #144 and graduated from Douglas Anderson High School in Jacksonville, Florida.  After graduating high school, James joined the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Vietnam War.  After leaving the Marines, James spent his professional career as an insurance salesman and staff manager for Independent Life and Accident Insurance Company and American General/AIG for thirty-eight years. 

He was a lifetime member of Second Missionary Baptist Church of Jacksonville Beach.  James served as Chairman of the Financial Board of the Church over fifty years and emphasized staff training and accountability of all revenues.  He was a member of the Church Official Board and demonstrated outstanding property management skills that has positioned the church to continue in its ministry.   James was Assistant to the Choir Director and an active member of the choir; he was known as the Minister of Music.  Although not an ordained deacon, James performed the duties of a deacon and many affectionately referred to him as “Deacon Shafter”.   He served as Leader of one of the Church Districts and was an active participant in Bible Study, Sunday School and all other church activities.  James Bernard Shafter was an active member of the PUSH Ministry for five years. 

He lived a simple lifestyle, preferring to spend as much time as possible with family and friends.  His hobbies included fishing, barbecuing, raising African Grey parrots, collecting German mechanical key wind clocks, and swimming with the manatees.

James is survived by his wife, Mary P. Shafter; children, Shonterie McKeiver (Spencer) and Monica Shafter; grandchildren, Chantiel McKeiver, Spencer “James” McKeiver, Christopher McKeiver; nephews, Marshall V. White Jr. (Denika), Robert Shafter Jr., Derrick Shafter, Oceanus A. Fluellen; nieces, Tiffany Marshall (Dennis), Niki Jackson; Mary’s children, Calvin Pittman, Derek Pittman, Tamara Carswell (Ellis), Willisha Pittman; Mary’s grandchildren; extended family, many friends; his dog, Hermle; and prize bird, Mr. Grey, an African Grey parrot. 

Graveside Service for James Bernard “Scrooge” Shafter will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, January 5, 2022, Ferreira Beaches Memorial Park, 1500 Main Street, Atlantic Beach, Florida.  Visitation Tuesday from 5 – 7 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Drive, 904.924.9400. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James B. Shafter, please visit our floral store.