Mary Johnston Shaw

Mary Johnston Shaw of Pelham, Alabama came face to face with her precious Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at Compassus Hospice. She was born July 13, 1952 to Harry A. Johnston and Ellen P. Johnston.

Mary's family and friends will gather for visitation from 12-2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at First Baptist Church of Pelham, immediately followed by A Celebration of Life service at 2 p.m. at the church. The gravesite committal service will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, Alabama. Mary's husband Dr. Mike Shaw, Dr. Skip Parvin, and Dr. Daven Watkins will officiate.

Mary began taking piano lessons as a child and became an accomplished pianist, clarinet player, and vocalist. After graduating from E.B. Erwin High School in 1970, she attended Samford University for one year. On June 25, 1971, she married Michael Edward "Mike" Shaw and moved to New Orleans, Louisiana. She attended Loyola University and studied Piano Pedagogy with Dr. James Bastien. She was awarded the Bachelor of Music Degree in May 1974.

In July 1971, Mike began pastoral ministry and Mary became an ideal pastor's wife. God blessed their union with two sons, Scotty and Jake. They served in Louisiana and Alabama, moving from Millry, Alabama to Pelham, Alabama in May 1979. Their service at First Baptist Church of Pelham lasted 35 years and Mary continued to serve as pianist until May 2018. She also served as a music teacher at Simmons Middle and Green Valley Elementary schools after a 20-year career as a piano teacher. She also served as a Trustee at Samford University.

Know as "Mrs. Mary," she was loved by every congregation where she and "Brother Mike" served. God blessed the Shaw family with two phenomenal daughters-in-law, Kristy and Sarah; four fabulous grandchildren, Tanner (Devin), Lilly, Sofie, and Libby; and two (so far) great-grandchildren, Harper and Kole.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the D&D Fund at First Baptist Church of Pelham, Alabama or to Samford University.