William Edward (Bill) Schaeffer, of Caledonia, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on August 18th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Reading, Pennsylvania on August 14th, 1938, to R. Harry and Evelyn Schaeffer, Bill lived almost his entire life in and around the Reading, PA area. Later in life, Bill and his wife moved to Mississippi to be with their son and his family. Bill lived a life filled with purpose, joy, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.

He will be remembered for his dedication to family, his kindness, and his passion for dirt track racing around the Reading, PA area. He found joy in not only watching dirt track racing, but in his earlier years he spent many nights and weekends working on race cars.  Later in life, he restored and raced antique race cars. He also enjoyed RVing and traveling to visit his family.

Bill worked hard at a variety of jobs throughout his life. Most notably, he enjoyed working on aircraft at the Reading Airport and later working on trucks at Penske Leasing. He was known for his dedication and skill and inspired those around him with his work ethic.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Grace Schaeffer, his son, Scott (Gayle) Schaeffer, his cherished grandchildren, Andrew and Laura Schaeffer, his sister Judith Heins and his brother Ralph Schaeffer. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service to celebrate Bill's life will be held later.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill's memory to Animal Resue League of Berks County, a cause that was close to his heart.

Bill's love, wisdom, and strength will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.