Shaffer Parsons Volunteer Fire Department Fund
The Shaffer Parsons Volunteer Fire Department Fund, established in 2014 with a $20,000 donation from Harold W. and Ruth F. Shaffer, provides perpetual funding to support the operations and needs of the Parsons Volunteer Fire Department.
TYPE OF FUND: Designated
DATE ESTABLISHED: August 2014
PURPOSE: To provide perpetual funding for the Parsons Volunteer Fire Department.
DISTRIBUTION: Upon the recommendation of the Grants Committee and approval by the Board of Directors of TCF.
VARIANCE POWER: If, in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment, or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund. TCF has exclusive legal control over any contributed assets.
FUNDING: $20,000 donation from Harold W. and Ruth F. Shaffer.
BACKGROUND: Harold W. Shaffer was born on May 28, 1907, to Harry S. and Stella Florence Adams Shaffer. A native of Barbour and Preston counties, he graduated from Parsons High School in 1926 and pursued higher education at Fairmont State College, West Virginia University, and Columbia University. Mr. Shaffer dedicated 40 years to teaching at Parsons High School, from 1933 to 1973. He established the school's National Honor Society, served as the first sponsor of the Bow Tie Club, and advised the Parsons Echo school newspaper beginning in 1934. He also mentored the Hi-Y Club for over ten years and sponsored multiple graduating classes. A U.S. Army veteran, he was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
His wife, Ruth Forman Shaffer, was born on August 16, 1912, to Joseph N. and Viola Clarkson Forman. Also a native of Barbour and Preston counties, she graduated from Philippi High School and worked at the First National Bank (now Mountain Valley Bank, NA) in Parsons from 1960 to 1972. After retiring in 1972, the couple relocated to Philippi.
Through their generous contribution, the Shaffers ensured long-term support for the Parsons Volunteer Fire Department, reinforcing their dedication to the safety and well-being of the community they served.
