Marjorie “Margie” “Cookie” Duke Schaffer
Marjorie “Margie” “Cookie” Duke Schaffer (née Duke) passed peacefully on June 2, 2026, at the age of 99, surrounded by the love and care of her family.
Margie was born on March 12, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Joseph and Jeanetta Duke. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold H. Schaffer, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, devotion, and family.
She was the cherished mother of Harold “Buzz” Schaffer, Daryl Schaffer (Janice), Michael Schaffer (Jenny), MaryAnn Hauser (Richard), and Janet Schaffer.
Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren, Josh Schaffer (Natalie), Andy Schaffer (Stacy), Shawn Schaffer (Mariana), Jennifer Schmidt (Eric), Adam Schaffer (Erin), Ashley Slater (Brian), Bryan Hauser (Alex) and sixteen great-grandchildren, Kaleb, Trey, Ava, Willa, Emerson, Asher, Hatcher, Adley, Charlie, Scarlett, Cooper, Briggs, Caroline, Poppy, Mya, and Piper, and beloved godchild, Jason Parmeley, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
Margie also held a special place in her heart for her step-grandchildren and their families, whom she loved as her own.
Margie’s love extended far beyond her own family. She had a special place in her heart for children and dedicated much of her life to their care, guidance, and well-being. Through her work with the St. Louis County Juvenile Court system and the YMCA, as well as countless volunteer efforts, she positively impacted the lives of many young people. Even into her mid-eighties, she remained active in serving others, reflecting a lifelong commitment to compassion, kindness, and community.
Margie will be remembered for her generous spirit, unwavering devotion to family, warm smile, and genuine concern for others. She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and a legacy of service and caring that will continue to inspire those who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be announced in the coming weeks.
Cookie, I’m already missing our visits. I keep looking up at the house and I’m sad. Knowing you these last 13 years have brought me more joy than you ever knew. You always told me when I was leaving your house that you loved me and to not forget about you. Rest assured I will never forget you! Love you!
Linda, on behalf of our entire family, thank you for your very thoughtful and kind words. We are exceptionally blessed that she lived to 99, a milestone reached by fewer than one percent of the population, and even more so that she retained her mental clarity until the end. While her declining physical health over the last few years frustrated her immensely, we find peace knowing she is no longer struggling. It was truly a gift that she was able to hold all five of her children, seven grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren in her arms over the years. Thank you for watching over her whenever we couldn’t be present. She mentioned you frequently, and please know we consider ourselves blessed that you were in her life. She truly enjoyed your visits and was deeply touched by your friendship.
Cookie was a wonderful friend, and I will miss her dearly. She loved sweets, so l always enjoyed making her cookies, coconut cake, and turtles. We loved spending time together and could talk for hours. One of the things I admired most about Cookie was her ability to find the good in everything and everyone. Her kindness, optimism, and friendship were a gift to all who knew her. I will always treasure the memories we shared and feel grateful to have had her in my life.
I will remember fondly how you shared your holidays with me and gave me advice never sugar coating! I remember the day I met you in Mae’s kitchen in Surprise AZ. YOU were the surprise!
How much you enjoyed receiving my gift of double size chocolate chip cookies via UPS for your birthday (that day I got to be your “surprise “) Rest in peace Cookie (Mom)
Such a Beautiful Tribute
Blessings on her Journeyl☀️
Love u always Aunt Cookie. I will miss hearing from u on our monthly calls and especially ur call to me on my birthday. I hope I get to live as long as u and still have my faculties and be surrounded by people who loved me. U were one of a kind! Marcia (Mae’s daughter)
Marcia, thank you for your kind words. It is wonderful to hear how much those monthly calls meant to you both. Mom always loved visiting Mae in Arizona. Please know we were grateful that you kept a watchful eye over Mae and Mom when they were together, and that the two of you maintained such a special relationship over the years.
Hoping you’re well, and thank you again for your sweet words
Peggy Helt, Thank you so much for your beautiful words. Your comment about her love of sweets brought a huge smile to our faces and was spot on. She absolutely adored the treats you made, but most of all, we know she cherished your company. We are so grateful for the deep friendship, hours of conversation, and love you shared with Mom over the years. Thank you for being such a wonderful part of her life!
Jen McDonald, Thank you for sharing your wonderful memories of her while she would visit Mae in Arizona. It has been wonderful to hear how many people she touched throughout her life, and how many people touched hers.