Michael T. Shaw

Celebrating the Life of Mr. Michael Thomas Shaw

“The Maestro”

 

God, in His infinite wisdom, chose Ernest and Annie Mae Moore Shaw, to be stewards over the life of Michael Thomas Shaw, born in Chicago, Illinois to this union, on January 29, 1949. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Annie Mae Shaw, and his brother, Ernest Shaw Jr.

 

As a young child, the Shaw home was one of great warmth and unconditional love. Michael was taught to love God and family, which he did throughout his lifetime.

Michael accepted Christ as his personal Savior in his early years and thus, began his work for the Lord. He exhibited an unusual talent for music that only grew and evolved as he became more involved in the church. Michael had a love for the Church and on October 27, 1963, he was called to unite with Fellowship M.B. Church under the Pastorate of the late Reverend Doctor Clay Evans. Michael was a very gifted musician. He along with other great musicians led the great Fellowship Combine Choirs to become a world renown gospel recording artist. In fact, Rev. Evans would often summon Michael to be creative, as he always enjoyed a highly skilled musician. Rev. Evans recognized Michael’s faithfulness to God, the Church and to him, resulting in their spiritual father and son relationship.

Michael had a special gift for revitalizing and rejuvenating Church Choirs and their music departments. He had a heart for young musicians and if they permitted him, he would serve as their coach. Throughout his life he received various awards and accolades for his contributions in the music industry, including the Thomas A. Dorsey Lifetime Achievement Award.

Michael received his education through the Chicago Public School System, attending Yale Elementary School, and Parker High School, graduating in 1967.

On September 14, 1968, Michael was united in matrimony to Linda Bernadette Evans. This union was blessed to have two daughters, Shenay Patrice and Shelita Michelle, whom he loved dearly. Michael was also blessed with two additional daughters, Brittany and Caprice whom he loved as well.

On June 17, 1969, Michael was inducted into the United States Army, where he served his country and was honorably discharged on April 7, 1971.

Michael had many skills such as mentoring, organizing, leading, creating and problem solving. Michael served on many Civic Boards. His personality and commitment to the city, community and across the country, led him to appointments and positions in and for Harris Bank for 21 years and the Mayors Office of Special Events, assisting with the promoting of the Chicago Gospel Fest for 10 years.

In March, 1999, Michael married Margaret Walker. They enjoyed a wonderful life of travel and musical ventures, as they both had a love for God and the Church.

In May of 2000 they relocated to Las Vegas, NV. After visiting several Churches in Nevada, they decided to join the Victory M.B. Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Robert Fowler, Sr. and currently under the leadership of the interim Pastor, Rev. Charles Smith. Michael was offered the position of Minister of Music, which he served faithfully for 18 years.

Michael leaves to celebrate his legacy and rejoice in his memory: his devoted and loving wife, Margaret; daughters, Shenay McCrary and Shelita Shaw, both of Chicago, Illinois, Caprice Miles of Henderson, NV and Brittany (Derron) Hunt of Atlanta GA; grandchildren, Shelby (Louie), Shenya, Destini, Aaliyah, Chase, and Carrington; one great-granddaughter, Marleigh; sister, Deborah Shaw (William) Black of Chicago, Illinois, brothers-in-law, Maurice Bird Sr. of Harvey, Illinois, and Marvin Bird of Chicago, Illinois; nephews, Jason Black and Maurice Bird Jr. both of Chicago, Illinois; niece, Jasmin (Christopher) Wardlaw and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.