Charlene Schaefer

January 17, 1961 - February 20, 2026

Charlene Marie (Hysell) Schaefer was born January 17, 1961, and died February 20, 2026.

Char was, at her core, a woman who loved deeply and lived her faith with open arms. She met people where they were. She had a way of walking alongside anyone without judgment, offering friendship, comfort, humor, prayer, and steady presence. Many experienced her as far more than a friend or relative. She was a daughter, sister, friend, wife, mom, dog mom, aunt, mims, companion, and a safe place — family in the truest sense.

Char loved Jesus and spoke about her faith simply and sincerely. She was merciful and forgiving. She prayed for people, cared about their burdens, and quietly led others toward God. She was a giver — generous with her gifts, her talents, her time, her attention, and her heart. She saw the best in people and trusted them. That trust came from her own purity of heart.

She also carried a sense of humor all her own. Even in hard seasons, she could still find something to smile about, turning small moments into laughter — the kind that surprises you and, for a moment, lets the weight lift. She looked at the bright side and wanted others to see it too.

She was a peacemaker. She was a learner. She was steady love in human form. She delighted in creation — the quiet, the open sky, the simple beauty of the world — and she loved hiking and traveling. Charli was creative and talented, drawn to music and art, and she expressed herself with a style that was uniquely her own. She had a gift of being present: listening, caring, and walking beside people through life.

One of the clearest summaries of her life is something she held close: she believed the greatest gift is love.

Details about Char's celebration of life ceremony will be shared at a later date. For those who desire to honor Char in a tangible way, donations can be made to The Salvation Army or Wounded Warrior Project in lieu of flowers.