John Thomas Shaw

VIRGINIA BEACH John Thomas Shaw died peacefully in his home on February 21, 2011. Mr. Shaw was born on March 24, 1926 in Jenkinjones, West Virginia. He was the only child of Roby Shaw and Mrs. Sallie Martin Shaw. "Mr. Tom" was the owner and operator of J.T. Shaw Sand Company as well as several other successful business ventures; he was a true entrepreneur. Tom was a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and lived his life by the core values of the Marine Corps, which are honor, courage and commitment. He was a member of Living Waters Christian Fellowship and supported many organizations and ministries, especially those serving the underprivledged. His heart was close to those with disabilities. His only child, Billie Gail was born deaf and Mr. Shaw and his wife Elizabeth, worked very hard to provide her with an excellent education and a quality life. His efforts helped pave the way for the laws contributing to fairness in the workplace for those with disabilities. Tom enjoyed the simple things in life, like traveling (especially to Hawaii), nature, country/bluegrass music and simple acts of kindness. He will be well remembered for handing out candy, macadamia nuts and his homemade jam to his friends and neighbors. The family would like to thank the Shaw Family's dearest friends, John and Amy Williams for their love and support through many years. Also, much gratitude is given to Tom's neighbors on Hermitage Point. They have provided the utmost love and generosity to his family for many years. A very special thank you to all of his loving caregivers who provided wonderful care to Mr. Tom.. You are like family. Mr. Shaw leaves to cherish his memory, his only grandson, Shawn Thomas Bobbitt. He was predeceased by the two loves of his life, his wife, Mary Elizabeth Shaw, and his daughter, Billie Gail Shaw Bobbitt. The funeral service will be held at 7:00pm, Thursday, February 24th, 2011 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk, Virginia 23502 The family will receive friends one hour prior at the funeral home. Condolences may be offered on line to the family at www.woodlawngroup.com.