The town of Carlisle, Iowa is still heartbroken after the tragic Carlisle Iowa car accident on June 10, 2024. In that crash, 15-year-old Hanna Shaffer of Carlisle, Iowa lost her life. Two of her friends were hurt but survived.
Hanna’s passing shocked her family, classmates, and the whole community. She had just finished her freshman year at Carlisle High School and was looking forward to summer ball games and time with friends.
Who Was Hanna?
Hanna was born on March 17, 2009, to Joshua and Angie Shaffer. She grew up in Carlisle, full of energy and laughter. Everyone remembers her bright smile and sparkling blue eyes. She loved sports, especially volleyball and softball, and was an active student at Carlisle High.
Her friends say she had the kind of personality that made everyone feel welcome. Teachers noticed her humor and kindness. She was the kind of student who could finish her work early, then make the whole class laugh.
The Day of the Accident
According to the Iowa State Patrol, the Carlisle Iowa accident happened on a Sunday night. The car Hanna was riding in went off the road, flipped, and landed in a ditch. Hanna was airlifted to Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. Despite doctors’ efforts, she passed away later that night.
The community canceled school games, and people gathered quickly to comfort each other. Her loss left a silence that everyone could feel.
Community Tributes
Even weeks later, people are finding ways to honor Hanna. Her volleyball teammates are dedicating their season to her. Carlisle’s football players joined the Fourth of July parade, not just to play, but to raise money for the Hanna Shaffer Memorial Scholarship.
One teammate said, “She was like a little sister to me.” Others shared that the scholarship is a way to make sure her name and spirit live on.
Obituary and Services
The Hannah Shaffer Carlisle Iowa obituary shared by her family invited friends and loved ones to a visitation at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home. A funeral service was held at Rising Sun Church of Christ, where many gathered to celebrate her life.
For those who couldn’t attend, the church also shared a video tribute online, showing Hanna’s journey through photos and memories: Watch here.
Words From Friends and Family
Her obituary page is filled with messages that show how deeply she touched people:
- “I just heard this terrible news. I’m so sorry for your loss… cherish the memories of your beautiful daughter.” – Darla Stone
- “Hanna would make the whole class laugh. She had the most contagious smile.” – Kimberly Salguero
- “Hanna was my best friend… the one person I always knew would be there for me. Now Hanna you are bigger than the whole sky.” – Laynie Abel
- “I remember the first day I held you. So beautiful, tiny and perfect. Now you’ll always be beautiful, tall and perfect.” – Aunt Kathy
These words, and many more, show the love that surrounds her family even in this painful time.
The Carlisle Hanna obituary reminds everyone that Hanna was more than a student in a tragic story. She was a daughter, a best friend, a teammate, and someone who made people laugh every day.
The community will keep her memory alive through scholarships, tributes on the field, and stories told again and again.
Hanna’s life was short, but it mattered. She left behind laughter, friendship, and love and Carlisle will never forget her.
