Shirley May Shaw

Shirley May Shaw, age 87, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 24, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was born the daughter of Pastors Eva and John Reck, Jr., on May 6, 1935, in Ottumwa, Iowa.

Shirley was a talented floral designer and extremely creative when it came to crafting and decorating. She was also a master gardener and loved tending to her beautiful lilies, roses, and peonies. Shirley took great pride in her yard and home and was known to run a tight clean ship!

Anyone who knew Shirley, knew that she had a beautiful voice. She loved singing gospel music and even formed The Gospel Express. Faith and politics were foundational for her. She had strong beliefs and stood proudly by them. Shirley was very active in many ways throughout her community, including member of the Board of Historical Society, 7 Neighborhood Associations, and as a poll worker for many years.

Shirley deeply loved her family, especially her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 51 years and 34 days Bob Shaw, children Jack (Linda) Close, Janet Ripley, Jim (Mary) Close, Joy (Alan) Bitner, and Chad (Kearstin) Shaw, 12 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, siblings Ed (Pat) Reck, Donnie (Carolyn) Reck, Kathy (Alex) Macy, and Karen (Bob) Robison, and a host of extended family members and friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings Jerald Reck and Judy Purdin.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 5, 2023 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 6, 2023 also at the funeral home followed by burial at Elm Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Bob and he will later gift to Parkinson’s PSP Foundation in memory of Shirley.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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