Shirley Shaw

1915 - 2015

Shirley P. Shaw, 100, of Barrington Hills, died peacefully, Thursday, July 2, 2015, at her home. Shirley was born on February 21, 1915, to Elizabeth and Charles Paulson in Lake Forest. She grew up in Lake Forest, with her sister Maxine. She had an early career as a highly sought after professional model for many of the top brands in the United States. In 1946 she met and married John Shaw and moved to Barrington Hills, where she lived for almost 70 years. After her marriage she continued her modeling for the St. Luke's Hospital Fashion Show, something she enjoyed doing for many years. Shirley and John enjoyed repeated visits to New York City and Boston to be with his two children, and in the early 1950s they had two children of their own. Shirley enjoyed playing golf with family and friends at Barrington Hills Country Club well into her 90's. She worked as a volunteer for the Cradle and was especially passionate about her volunteer work at Chapin Hall in Chicago. She was a member of the Garden Club of Barrington for more than 50 years. She and John were avid gardeners and had the most extensive daffodil garden in Barrington. On her own she maintained over 500 house plants. When she wasn't looking after them she was making her pickles, jams and breads that she so generously gave to her many friends. Shirley and John enjoyed their time in Barrington Hills, Naples, Florida, Carefree, Arizona, and extensive travels to Europe. After John died, Shirley spent more time at her home in Carefree, always returning to Barrington in the Spring to plant her garden. At age 80 she decided to build a smaller home in Barrington and managed all the details of its construction. It is where she died on July 2nd. Shirley is survived by her loving children, Arch W. Shaw II, Bruce P. (Nancy) Shaw, John I. (Ann) Shaw Jr., and Susie (Nelson) Hooe; eleven grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren; special friend, Taylor Forrest; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband John I. Shaw in 1990; her grandson, Arch W. Shaw III; grandson, Nelson Shaw Hooe; and sister, Maxine Paulson. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Anne "Annie" Kern, who was Shirley's invaluable caregiver. A memorial Service was be held on July 10, at St. Michael's Episcopal Church 647, Dundee Ave, Barrington, IL 60010. Entombment was held at Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her honor may be made to Good Shepherd Hospital www.advocategiving.org or to JourneyCare www.journeycare.org. For information, please contact Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 847-381-3411. For online condolences, please visit www.davenportfamily.com.