In Memory of Bryan Shaver: Support His Family

Hello Everyone,

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my dear brother-in-law, Bryan Shaver, who passed away on August 22, 2024, after a courageous battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Bryan was born in Memphis, TN, the second oldest of five children and the only son of Dr. Glyndon and Faye Shaver. He earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Texas at Austin and went on to build a successful career in the semiconductor and medical technology industries.

Bryan met Michele in 1989 through their involvement in the pro-life movement, and they married in 1990 (this month commemorating their 34th year of marriage.) Together, they raised nine wonderful children: Nathan, Brianna, Jonathan, Elizabeth, Katherine, Aaron, Victoria, Brynne, and Ethan.

In February 2018, at just 58 years old, Bryan was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Following his diagnosis, Bryan retired from Abbott Laboratories, and he and Michele, along with several of their children, moved from Minnesota to Texas to be closer to family and friends. They initially settled in Waco but eventually found their home on a small homestead outside of Killeen, where Michele was dedicated to keeping Bryan at home throughout his illness. On the homestead, Michele and Ethan took the lead in organizing educational farm tours for school-aged children and running an Airbnb to help supplement Bryan’s social security income.

This past spring, Michele suffered a broken leg, which unfortunately reduced their ability to maintain this supplemental income. Many of you have reached out, asking how you can help. If you feel moved to support Michele and Ethan during this challenging time, easing their financial burden through monetary gifts, participating in meal trains, or simply offering your prayers would be greatly appreciated.

In the spirit of community and love, Michele has humbly opened herself to receiving this support. While it can be challenging to accept help, we want to remind her—and ourselves—that family, friends, and church are here to provide strength and comfort in times of need.

Thank you in advance for reading, sharing, and contributing to Bryan’s Memorial Fund. Michele is profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love, generosity, and kindness during this difficult time.

For those who knew Bryan, you remember him as a man of simplicity and gentleness, whose heart was devoted to Christ and his family. In the words of his favorite Christian artist, Bob Bennett, “Way down, I know that I am a fortunate man to have known Divine Love.”

A funeral service to honor Bryan’s life will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Hill Country Fellowship in Burnet, TX, followed by a luncheon. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed (link to follow).

Hill Country Fellowship: 200 Houston Clinton Dr. Burnet, TX 78611

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers.

Warm regards,

Vinton Stanfield