RICHMOND, Va. -- Former Richmond news anchor, Lisa Schaffner, died unexpectedly at the age of 59, reported WRIC.
Schaffner worked at WRIC for 22 years and was well known throughout the community as a well-respected broadcaster.
She later became the marketing director for the United Network for Organ Sharing.
Many of us at CBS 6 knew her personally and will remember her fondly.
"Lisa and I started at WXEX the same week in March 1986. Over the last 35 years, Lisa never changed in being an authentic, caring person. Her ability to communicate, both to the masses (on air) and one-on-one, was unique. I admire greatly her unlimited energy to make a difference in our Central Virginia community. Any nonprofit that reached out to her, she jumped in 100%. Her passion and love of life were contagious for anyone she came in contact. She loved people and they returned the favor. A tremendous loss for RVA."
Lisa Schaffner was a friend, former colleague, and one of the most caring people I ever met. She was the newsroom mother who looked after everyone. She always had time to talk to you no matter who you were. We worked closely together on several projects and our time together can never be replaced. We laughed and cried together. My thoughts and prayers go out to her children, husband, and all her friends. Love you Lis!
CBS 6 Senior Reporter Wayne Covil remembered Schaffner as a "kind, sweet and true journalist."
Reporter and anchor Tracy Sears said Schaffner was an inspiration to her when she moved to Richmond as a young journalist 20 years ago.
"I recently saw her out at a restaurant and like always, her personality was kind and infectious," she wrote. "She was about to get remarried and seemed so very happy. My heart breaks for her family."
A List Events reporter Antoinette Essa remembered Schaffner as "always so full of life with that smile that lit up a room."
Former CBS 6 Anchor Angie Miles called Schaffner a "kind soul who was a dear friend to many" and a "luminary of our local news scene for decades."
"Her passing is much too soon and all too sad," Miles wrote. "Giving thanks for how much she gave to our profession and our communities. And asking for prayers of comfort for those who knew and loved Lisa best."
