Sally Mae (Hennels) Schaefer

Sally Mae (Hennels) Schaefer, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, in Bellville, Texas. Born on May 9, 1936, she brought warmth and kindness into the lives of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Sally grew up in Towson, Maryland, where she attended the Immaculate Conception Catholic School before proudly graduating from Towson Catholic High School. She furthered her education at St. Joseph College in Emmitsburg, Maryland. She also followed her love of ballet and dance, auditioning for the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes in New York City, where she met Manfred W. Schaefer. On May 10, 1957, Sally and Manfred were married and moved to Houston, where Manfred developed drilling muds for the oilfield industry. She loved animals and worked at the Houston Zoo for many years. She moved to Bellville to be closer to her grandchildren and took delight in having them and their friends over for snacks and fellowship before and after-school sports and/or band practices began. Her compassionate spirit found its calling as a school bus monitor for children with special needs with the Bellville Independent School District, where she dedicated herself to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for her precious passengers.

Sally’s greatest pride and joy were her family. She leaves behind a loving family that includes her daughter, Laura Mann, and her son, Douglas W. Schaefer, and his wife, Karen. She delighted in the presence of her grandchildren: William Cole Mann, Devon (Mann) Lowe, and Ryan Schaefer; and great-grandchildren: Ford Lowe and Mallory Lowe. Each carries a piece of her heart, and through them, her legacy will continue to thrive.

Sally is now reunited with her dear parents, Andrew Wielinski-Hennels, a veteran of WWI and WWII, and Mae (Collins) Hennels, a nurse, who preceded her in death.

As we mourn the loss of Sally Mae (Hennels) Schaefer, let us also celebrate the enduring impact she had on everyone and every animal fortunate enough to cross her path. Sally was affectionately known by her neighbors as “The Cat Lady”, a testament to her warm-heartedness and her love for her feline friends. This charming title encapsulated her gentle spirit and innate ability to bring comfort and happiness to those around her. In keeping with Sally’s spirit, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Friends of Austin County. A private family service is planned.