Zanesville Remembers Velma A. Shaffer-Toole, 96, Operations Manager

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Velma A. Shaffer-Toole, 96, passed away at 9:31 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living in Zanesville.

Born on August 10, 1929, in Zanesville, Velma was the daughter of Andrew and Hailly (Marsh) Shaffer. She married William L. Toole on January 31, 1953, and was a dedicated member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

Velma enjoyed a successful career as the Operations Manager for Merrill-Lynch & Company, retiring in 1992 after more than 43 years of service. Beyond work, she had a passion for the outdoors, gardening, and painting landscape portraits.

She leaves behind two sisters, Audrey (Jerry) Smith and Frieda Sikora; a brother-in-law, Raymond Toole; a sister-in-law, Patricia Toole; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.

Velma was preceded in death by her husband, William L. Toole, who passed away on October 6, 1985, and ten siblings. She also mourned the loss of her longtime companion, Edward Lewellen.

Friends may pay their respects from 9:30 to 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM, conducted by Fr. David Young. Velma will be interred next to her husband in Mt. Olive Cemetery.

For condolences, please visit the online guestbook.