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Letha Catherine "Cathy" Schaffer

November 9, 1953 — September 13, 2026

Manchester, MD

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With hearts full of love and sorrow, we wish to announce that Letha Catherine “Cathy” Schaffer passed from this earth peacefully on September 13, 2026, at her home in Manchester, MD, surrounded by family, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Cathy was born on November 9, 1953, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late John and Letha Siegmund. She is survived by husband, Lawrence, to whom she was married for nearly 38 years.

She graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Business, Cum Laude, with a Bachelor of Science degree and became a CPA for many years. Cathy managed the accounting for the Schaffer Mulch & Bus Service, owned alongside her husband, Lawrence.

Cathy enjoyed the magic and nostalgia of all things Mickey Mouse. An avid collector of Disney memorabilia, each piece brought her great joy. Cathy greatly enjoyed sharing the magic and wonder with her grandchildren by traveling on Disney cruises and going to Disney World, where she was always hunting down their favorite characters for pictures and going to as many character meals as possible.

Cathy had an adventurous spirit, leading her to travel to many different destinations. Whether by motor home, cruise ship, bus trips, or by plane, Cathy treasured her memories, seeing new things and meeting new people in places like Paris, Monaco, Amsterdam, an African safari, Aruba and Alaska. She especially enjoyed regular trips to Myrtle Beach, Pigeon Forge and Branson, Missouri with her husband. Cathy could frequently be found cheering on her favorite drivers in Nascar races.

Her greatest pride and joy, however, was in celebrating her grandchildren’s accomplishments. Affectionately known as Granny, she wouldn’t miss a chance to attend a sporting event, dance recital, or musical performance. Being together with family brought her much happiness, as she enjoyed decorating and shopping for Christmas, making sure the grandchildren had matching pajamas for Christmas Eve, and experienced the whimsy of Santa on Christmas morning. She planned annual Easter egg hunts and huge Thanksgiving meals - no one ever went away hungry from Granny’s house.

In addition to her husband, Cathy is survived by a brother, John Siegmund. Cathy is also survived by her sons David Parsley, Jr. (Kimberly), their children Brittany (Timothy) with great-granddaughter Evelyn Grace, Arianna, and Collin; Steven Parsley (Jenny), their children Langdon and Maggie; and Craig Parsley (Missy) their children Karyna, Johnathan, Claire, and Joseph.

Cathy is also survived by her stepchildren and spouses; Ed & Gail Crowl, Paul & Sherry Crowl, Charles & Diana Schaffer, Sandy & Robin Seipp, Robin & Jesse Coleman and Craig Peregoy, spouse of Lawrence’s deceased daughter, Debbie Peregoy; in addition to numerous cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cathy was preceded in death by her mother and father, John and Letha Siegmund; step daughter Debbie Peregoy; and extended family members.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 am - 12 pm at ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A., located at 3296 Charmil Dr, Manchester, MD 21102, with a memorial service at 12 pm. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation; online at The Parkinson's Foundation or by mail at Parkinson’s Foundation Attn: Donor Relations, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami, FL 33126


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Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Saturday, September 19, 2026

10:00 am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

Eckhardt Funeral Chapel, P.A. of Manchester

3296 Charmil Dr
Manchester, MD 21102

*Standard text messaging rates apply.

Memorial Service

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

Eckhardt Funeral Chapel, P.A. of Manchester

3296 Charmil Dr
Manchester, MD 21102

*Standard text messaging rates apply.

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