Dorothy A. Shafer

Dorothy (Dottie) A. Shafer was peacefully called home on December 6, 2025. Born on November 16, 1946, in Batavia, NY, to the late Salvatore and Phyllis (LaLoggia) Maniace, she was a life-long resident of Batavia, she graduated from Batavia High School and later retired from Eastman Kodak in Rochester. A devoted member of Ascension Parish, Dorothy cherished her strong relationship with her Savior.

Dorothy was renowned for her exceptional decorating skills, making holidays truly special with her unique touches. She excitedly anticipated holiday baking with her sisters, traditionally preparing hundreds of Christmas cookies to share, particularly her beloved homemade fudge. Many cherished the birthday cakes she baked and delivered on special occasions. With a keen eye for fashion, she loved shopping and could spot a great sale from afar. Sundays were often reserved for making sauce at the homestead and cheering on her beloved Buffalo Bills.

Coming from a strong Sicilian heritage, Dorothy was one of eighteen children. She was predeceased by her brothers John, Charles, Samuel, Franklin (Ace), and Dominic Maniace, as well as her sisters Josephine DeFazio, Frances Mandelar, Mary Jacobs, and Angeline Siracuse. Also by her brothers-in-law Neil Jacobs, Clarence Dora, and John Torres, alongside her sister-in-law Nicolina Maniace. Dorothy leaves behind several cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as brothers and sisters-in-law. She will be reunited with her beloved fur babies, Krystal, Casey and Ginger.

Dorothy is survived by her loving husband of 52 years Leslie Shafer, who cared for her diligently until her last days. She is also survived by her honorary children, Gloria Snyder, Michelle M. Maniace and David Snyder II. Her brothers Michael (Beverly), Joseph (Joan), Nathan, Richard (Kathy), and Robert Maniace. Her adored sisters include Linda Maniace, Rose Marie Torres, and Lucille Dora. She leaves behind several very special nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the HCR nursing and physical therapy staff, as well as all her medical providers during her nearly 19-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. We are grateful to family and friends who stepped in to care for her and Leslie. Special thanks to Mercy EMS for their support during her final travels through the city she loved and to the staff at Gateway Home along with Hospice. From the moment we arrived, your kindness and respect eased our hearts.

At Dorothy's request, there will be no calling hours. A 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday December 15, 2025 at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. Batavia, NY 14020. Interment will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery. 

Dorothy has requested no flowers. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Gateway Home, 91 Main Street, Attica, NY 14011, would be deeply appreciated. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.