Roslyn Schaffer

Roslyn “Grambo” Schaffer, age 97, of Statesville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Born on April 1, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, Roslyn grew up on Long Island where she began a life defined by strength, humor, and compassion. Over the years she lived in Miami and Pensacola, Florida, as well as Morganton and Hickory, North Carolina before settling in Statesville.

In her early years, Roslyn trained as a ballet dancer and worked as a legal secretary and law office manager and later brought her warm spirit to her work at Belk and the Harmony Public Library. Over the years she was an avid volunteer, donating her time to the USO during World War 2, Mercy Hospital of Miami, the American Red Cross, Hickory Community Theatre, Boys and Girls Club of Iredell County, and the Pink Tea Room at Iredell Memorial Hospital.

Roslyn was the kind of person who left a lasting impression wherever she went —fiercely independent and just as fiercely devoted to the people she loved. She loved to laugh, and her sharp wit and resilience were hallmarks of a life well lived.

Roslyn was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Minnie Cohen; her siblings, George and Ruth; her daughter, Donna Motley; and many dogs she loved dearly. She is survived by her daughter, Jan Kay (Jim); her granddaughters, Jenessa Kay (Will Freres) and Chelsea Kay; and her great-granddaughter, Charlotte Zaborowski.

Friends often said she was an inspiration for living a long, healthy life. Her legacy lives on in the strength, humor, and love of those she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered always.

A visitation will be held at 10:00am on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Nicholson Funeral Home in Statesville, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00. A private burial for the family will take place afterward. Please feel free to wear bright colors to honor such a vibrant life!

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Rescue Ranch in Statesville, NC, an organization that provides sanctuary, humane education, and promotes compassion for animals - reflecting Roslyn’s kindness and love for animals. Donations may be made by clicking here.

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Schaffer family.