Shawn Marie Burks

Shawn Marie Burks, beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024, at the age of 65. Born on December 5, 1958 in Baton Rouge Louisiana, Shawn was a fierce advocate for justice and a passionate defender of the rights of others.

A proud graduate of San Diego State University and California Western School of Law, Shawn dedicated more than 20 years of her life to public service as an Assistant Prosecutor and a Public Defender. Throughout her legal career, she worked tirelessly to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, had access to a fair and just legal process. Her commitment to defending constitutional rights and providing a voice for the underserved was at the heart of her work.

After retiring, Shawn relocated to Sanibel, Florida where she embraced a new chapter surrounded by family and great friends. In Sanibel, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life - cooking, dining out, riding bikes, and shelling along the beach. Shawn also nurtured a deep love for travel, exploring new destinations with a sense of adventure and curiosity she shared with those closest to her.

Shawn is survived by her husband of 25 years, Michael Valdes; her daughter, Nicole Post (Cody); her stepdaughter, Allison Proctor (Tyrus); and her cherished grandchildren, Marcus, Amara, and Aliyana; and, her mother, Barbara Roach. Shawn was eagerly awaiting the arrival of another granddaughter, expected in January. Her family is comforted knowing that her legacy of love, compassion, and strength will live on through her children and grandchildren.

Shawn will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her memory, a cause close to Shawn’s heart. May her memory be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.