Verna R. Shafer, 87, of Carlisle, passed away Saturday, November 24, 2012, at her home. She was born on Thursday, April 23, 1925, in Carlisle, a daughter of the late Lee M. and Edith (Wagner) Railing. She was the widow of Lloyd S. Shafer, who died Feb. 24, 2007.

Verna was a 1943 graduate of Carlisle High School and retired from the former C. H. Masland & Sons, Carlisle, after 38 years of service. Verna was an executive secretary. She was a member and former deacon of Second Presbyterian Church, Carlisle, member of the Carlisle Garden Club, Cumberland County Historical Society and AARP. Verna enjoyed and taught craft making. She also enjoyed gardening and traveling and had visited all 50 states.

She is survived by one brother, Glenn Railing and one sister, Joyce Warner, both of Carlisle, two nephews; Michael Railing of Carlisle and David Warner of Hummelstown, five nieces; Sandra Weibley of Boiling Springs, Dianne Czupil and Amy Wagner, both of Mechanicsburg, Linda Stamey of Boiling Springs and Brenda Bradley of Mt. Holly Springs and many great-nieces and nephews. Verna was alsowidowed from her first husband, Jack Bateman and was preceded in death by one brother, Karl Railing.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 29, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the Second Presbyterian Church, 528 Garland Dr., Carlisle, with Rev. Jeff W. Gibelius and Rev. Jennifer McKenna officiating. A time of fellowship and refreshment will immediately follow the service at the church. Burial will be private in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Newville. Ewing Brothers Funeral Home, Carlisle, is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Second Presbyterian Church or The Salvation Army, 20 E. Pomfret St., Carlisle, PA 17013.