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Anamaria Shaw Obituary
Memorial service: 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth.
Anamaria was born Nov. 1, 1957, in Elmhurst, N.Y. She received her Ph.D., M.A., and B.F.A. degrees from Texas Christian University. Anamaria was honored with the Exemplary Teachers Award- T.C.C. in 2002. She also served on the board of directors for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Survivors: Daughter, Megan L. Shaw of Fort Worth; parents, Judith and Carlos Diaz of Manhasset, N.Y.; brother, Carlos Diaz, and sister-in-law, Cheryl A. Diaz, of Kalamazoo, Mich.; and other relatives and friends.
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Memories and Condolences
for Anamaria Shaw
Sponsored by anonymous.
Francisco Martinez
November 23, 2023
Always in my heart, my dear Anamaria.
September 6, 2010
"Time it was and what a time it was
A time of innocence
A time of confidences
Long ago it must be
I have a photograph
Preserve our memories"
from "Old Friends" P.Simon
Janna Boyd Allison
December 18, 2008
To Megan and the Diaz family,
I had the privilege of meeting Ana at TCU in the dance department. I echo all that I have read from other friends. There was just something so special about Ana, she indeed "lit up" a room. I think one of the traits that stands out in my mind is that she was a loyal friend. I admire her so much for all she accomplished in her life; her determination and her grit; her incredible love for people; her sense of humor and quick wit; her grace and beauty. I am a richer person for having had her as a friend and will treasure always the memories I have. Megan, I know she loved you fiercely. I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all through this time and the days ahead. May God wrap His arms around you and bring you comfort and peace as only He can.
Fernando and Karen Schaffenburg
December 5, 2008
We remember Anamaria in "Nutcracker" in the Spanish variation, her beauty radiating over the footlights to reach many people. But, we remember more than that is the grace and beauty in her performance of "Dance Rites", a cast of nine women and nine men. The picture of her beauty is still in our minds but there is more to that. When she came into the studio for class or rehearsal there was an immediate warmth caused by her uneffected presence. We are now in the perennial "Nutcracker" and we can not forget the exquiste Anamaria who radiated joy and elegance in her role as a Spanish maja. We never saw her again after leaving Fort Worth in 2000 but our thoughts are now with Megan and the Diaz family. All our thoughts and love to them.
Paula Baker
December 5, 2008
When Anamaria taught at All Saints Episcopal School I was the librarian/nurse. She was a beautiful woman in every way. My prayers be with the family.
Paula Baker, All Saints Episcopal School
Heather Headlee
December 4, 2008
One day, at a somewhat bureaucratic meeting, Anamaria threw out the question: “Why can’t we just teach literature sitting under a big tree, eating grapes?!?” It was beautifully off-the-wall in the context of the meeting—refreshing, the way she always was. Today, though her presence--her laughter, her smile--are so grievously missed by so many, we can perhaps think of Ana in her olive-complected beauty, drenched in golden light, relaxing under a tree, sharing literature with students rapt in her love of it…in a place where the only requirements for class are books and grapes…
My deepest love to Ana’s sweet Megan and all of her beloved family and friends...
Tammy Smith
December 4, 2008
The first time I met Anamaria was 5 yrs ago during radiation therapy. I will never forget Anamaria's beautiful smile....Captivating and her great laugh.
One day we will see your beautiful smile again.
Jenny Johnston
December 3, 2008
Dear Megan, and Diaz family,
What a delight to have known Anamaria. I met her at TCU in the dance dept. She was so accepting and kind to me and welcomed me with open arms. She was such an inspiration and a model of courage and determination. She loved you Megan and lived her life to the fullest leaving you a wonderful legacy! I remember her with a smile and giggle as she was always so positive and free with her laughter, an amazing soul! I'm so glad I saw her this past July at Mimi's home and that we shared a wonderful visit. She has left her mark in the world for all of us to remember and cherish. I thank God that he had her on my path. I've learned so much from her.
Megan, she will always be with you in your heart, mind, and soul. She lives in you!
God bless you all !
Sandra Stegelman-Miller
December 3, 2008
I was so fortunate to have known Ana for over 30 years. We were roommates, dance partners, friends....she was my role model. She exuded all the qualities I most admire....confidence, compassion, courage, wit, intelligence, humor and boundless love. My heart has a gaping hole left by her absence. Megan, Dr. and Mrs. Diaz and Carlitos, I am so sorry you have to suffer the consequence of such a painful loss. I am honored to have known your Anamaria.
Kirk Adams
December 3, 2008
I consider myself a very lucky person for having known Ana. She was, without a doubt, a role model for all who knew her. She exhibited more courage on a daily basis than anyone I have ever met. I will miss her smile and sense of humor as well as our talks about favorite pieces of literature. I feel blessed to have been one of her many friends.
Benton Jennings
December 3, 2008
I was at TCU in the 70s with Anamaria, and had not seen her in probably all those years since, but when my dear friend Janna (Boyd) Allison sent me a message about her passing, I instantly recalled the beautiful, elegant young woman I knew then, and I mourn the loss of such a bright light in our world.
Jasmin Trimble
December 3, 2008
Megan,
Your mother was the most beautiful person through and through. She always had an aura about her that made you feel good. She was brilliant, compassionate, resilient, loving......... We used to exchange stories about you and my little sister that is the same age as you. You were the world to her. I am very thankful to have been blessed with having Ana as a friend and a colleague. She has most definitely impacted my life with her strength and character.
Tina Clayton
December 2, 2008
Megan,
My heart goes out to you. I know you will miss your mom greatly. She was a fabulous lady who raised an incredible daughter. May your memories comfort you during this difficult time. You are surrounded by loving family and friends. Lean on them for support. You have your own special gaurdian angel now.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Tina Clayton
Janice Tomberlin
December 2, 2008
I have had the privilege of caring for Anamaria for at least the past decade as she courageously battled her cancer. We had daughters the same age so it was particularly poignant. She had an incredible grace and dignity that was truly a privilege to witness. Megan, know that she held on longer than expected out of sheer love and commitment to you. She was amazing.
Linda Frazier
December 2, 2008
Ana was the most courageous unselfish person I ever knew. She always made us feel better, even when she was feeling so badly. Ana loved Megan, life, and laughter. She made the world brighter and more beautiful because she was here. One of the great privileges of my life is that she was my friend.
Ellyn Leopold
December 2, 2008
Megan, you must remember what an incredible woman your mother was. She had such spirit and grace, she is reflected in you. I count myself lucky to have known her for the past 13 years and to have you and Tesch grow up together. Take faith sweetheart that there is an Angel in heaven guiding your every move and watching you along the way. She may have left us but she will always, always be in our hearts.
Floreen
December 1, 2008
Rest in peace, dear colleague, courageous one: You will be sorely missed, but always remembered.
Radonna Patterson
December 1, 2008
Anamaria will always signify beauty, strength, and courage to me. Knowing her was a true honor. We met at TCU in the dance department. I last spoke to her while in London, three years ago, while visiting a mutual friend, Paolo, in which we discussed her love for her daughter, Megan, and how much she loved to see her mature into a beautiful, delightful young lady. I heard her pride and joy in her voice which made Paolo and I so happy for her. Anamaria, we will miss you. Blessings to your family and peace be to you all.
Pat Clough
December 1, 2008
To Megan Shaw and the Diaz family,
Ana's great heart and gift for joy have been a blessing to all of us here at Southeast. My prayer for all of you is for her great love and wisdom to help sustain you through this painful time and comfort you in the future.
Megan, I hope you will always be able to know that those same strenghs are yours whenever you most need them.
To all of Ana's family, please know that your daughter and sister truly graced our lives, and we thank you. Pat Clough
Violet O'Valle
December 1, 2008
Dear Megan,
Your Mom was the most beautiful woman I have ever known--inside and out. And she was so much fun, too. The last timeI saw her,just before she passed, she had that mischievous twinkle in her eye. She was an inspiration to so many people, one of those special friends who are never, ever far away. Your TCC family loves you, as we did her.
Jennifer Casseday-Blair
December 1, 2008
I first met Dr. Shaw as my teacher at TCC. My thoughts have often been with her because of the incredible impact she had on my education. She was an amazing professor and an incredible woman. I always looked up to her strength and grace. She is an inspiration for all. My prayers will be with your family. It was an honor to know her.
Susan Hoskins
December 1, 2008
To Megan: Your Mom was one very beautiful person. But you already know that. I knew her first when I came to teach at All Saints' in the Upper School. She and Suzanne Jackson were among the first to greet me my first day of school (twenty years ago)! Chapels were a frequent occurence, and Anamaria and I had to NOT sit next to each other because we would get tickled at the same things, and start laughing. One of the times that I thought the priest might throw us out was when your mother would quote the passages the priest was supposed to say, and then be quiet when the people were supposed to be talking. It was very unusual for her to be quiet! I will miss her so much, and will think of you often. But the blessing is mine for having known such a smart, funny, dedicated, unique person as your mom. There will never be another like her!
Ashley Alfaro
December 1, 2008
Words seem insufficient to express the joy Anamaria brought to so many. Ana always took time to care about those around her and gracefully assisted those in need. When my sister had breast cancer, she became a constant source of knowledge and support for me. Ana's smile was contagious and her dedication inspirational. I am very thankful for the 12 years I was blessed to know Ana. Her selflessness and courage will cotinue to inspire me.
Chris Baack
December 1, 2008
Megan,
The lives your mother touched are without number -- and I am stronger for having been one of them. Take comfort in all that she gave the world. Remember that she is at peace -- and I hope you can take solace in that.
Ana's 51st Birthday gathering with friends 11-07-08
Lydia Macaulay
December 1, 2008
I miss Ana so much! She was great source of support for me during my battle with breast cancer.
Ana didn't just try to survive breast cancer, she lived despite breast cancer!
She will always be a beautiful spirit.
Elizabeth Carrington
December 1, 2008
I met Anamaria when she transferred to the Southeast Campus from South, just prior to her finding out she'd need a stem cell transplant. We became really great friends over the years and I am so grateful that I've had the privilege to know Megan well and Anamaria's parents, Judith and Carlos. Through Anamaria, I've learned what true strength and perserverance is. I've also been witness to what I call "true Mother's love." Through her multiple surgeries, chemo protocols, and radiation, she continued working full-time, attended activities and events, and travelled. She was a marvel to behold. Anamaria radiated beauty and intelligence throughout her life and it was always so fun to be with her. I miss her tremendously. I am so glad that I had her in my life, but I am also glad she's finally whole again and at peace.
Cathy Kemper
December 1, 2008
Megan,
I knew your mother for just a brief time, and yet I will remember her always. She was the epitome of courage and devotion in the face of great challenges, and she set an example for us all. Her life was filled with love, laughter, family, friends, and faith-the kind of wealth that cannot be measured. Hers was truly a wonderful life, and we are all blessed by it.
Linda Daniels McDonald
December 1, 2008
Dear Megan,
I met Ana the first week at TCU. We were fellow dance majors. We still remained friends. Ana had a great smile and was a wonderful person. She was loved by so many. I will miss her greatly. My prayers are with you. I too lost my mother to cancer this past year and I can relate to how you are feeling. Take comfort in knowing she will always be with you, because you are a part of her.
Linda
Pauline
November 30, 2008
Megan, Joji, Carlos. Ana and all of you became part of Gary's and my family and I part of your's. The junk pizza and movie times, the special dinners, The trips together,and family get-togethers have all become a part of our lives that is indelible and that I will love to remember as some of the best of my life. Those parts of time never disappear. I love you all.
Katie Groves
November 30, 2008
I met Ana during freshman orientation at TCU. At that time we realized we were in the same audition for the University at Cincinnati dance program the year before. We remained friends through the years, but lost touch while establishing careers and families, but reconnected later. I always admired her strength and courarge. I will miss our times together.
Elizabeth Joseph
November 30, 2008
Anna was an inspiration to all of us in the English Department at TCC-SE. She was the epitome of strength even when enduring a great deal of pain. I always admired her intelligence and wit. I miss her already. My heart-felt condolences to her daughter Megan and the rest of the family at this very sad time.
Fr. Robert Bosworth
November 30, 2008
Dear Megan,
I taught with you Mom at All Saints' Episcopal School just after the high school opened, in the eighties. I remember well her carrying you and her joy at your birth. May God comfort you as she experiences the total joy of Paradise. You'll be in my prayers. Blessings . . . Fr. Bob+
Francisco Martinez
November 29, 2008
Anamaria and I met in 1975 when we attended TCU as dance majors. Through the years we kept in close contact through letters, phone calls, occasional visits and e-mails to check in on our lives. She was an inspiring muse and a beautiful friend. It is difficult to think of life without her but I am blessed by her spirit that will continue to nourish my soul.
Megan, Judith, Carlos, Carlos Jr. and Cheryl mi mas sincero pesame. Los acompano en su dolor.
Nancy Russell Eubank
November 29, 2008
I met Anamaria several years ago. She was always full of life and hope and so very humble. Her love for Megan always stands out in my mind. She was an inspiration for many and a fine example of strength and courage. May God Bless her family as she will be greatly missed and may light perpetual shine upon her now and forever.
Terri Schrantz
November 29, 2008
I am so blessed to count Ana as one of my dearest and closest friends for nearly 20 years. She touched my life, and many others, in profound and positive ways. And Megan, your Mother's love for you is one of the most beautiful love stories I have been privileged to witness. Ana's love and light will live forever in our hearts. Peace to all.
Doug White
November 29, 2008
Megan,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ana was the best English teacher I ever had; she and I had a great summer finishing up her dissertation and watching "Bold and the Beautiful." There will always be a special place in my heart for her... +May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace, and may light perpetual shine upon them.
Zoe Stein Pierce
November 29, 2008
Anamaria was truly grace in life-a beautiful dancer,devoted mother and dedicated teacher,delightful colleague and friend. Everyone that knew her was inspired by her and her determination to live her life to the fullest.When I think of courage I think of her.She will be missed and her memory treasured.
Mabel & Dennis Peck
November 29, 2008
Dennis and I were only with Anamaria a few times at Gaye Reed's, but each time was like being with a special friend we had known forever. She was a beautiful woman, inside and out and we pray that light perpetual shines upon her. Unfortunately for us who remain on earth, her life here was too short.
Diane Turner
November 29, 2008
Ana was such a fighter. All of us colleagues admired, respected and loved her. We are sorry her courageous fight has ended
Julia Burke
November 29, 2008
Dear Megan and Family,
Dr. Shaw was the first English teacher I had out of high school, and she is the one that inspired me to become an English teacher. She was so intelligent and funny. I was in awe of her. She will be deeply missed.
Cindy Thrasher
November 29, 2008
I am so very sorry for your loss. I took a TCC Distance Learning literature class from Ms. Shaw a couple of semesters ago, and she introduced me to the wonders of the written word. She made a significant impact on my life and will be remembered by me always.
Madeline Samples
November 29, 2008
When I started on the Komen board there was Anamaria: vivacious, witty and hard-working. I had the pleasure of working with her on some committees and handing off my grants work to her. She often spoke fondly of Megan. She had a presence and was always full of positive energy that was contagious. A beauty in all senses. I will miss her. I send my condolences to her family. She was a one of a kind. A real treasure.
Kim Terry
November 28, 2008
Meghan and family,
Your mom was a colleague of mine at TCC-SE Campus. She was an inspiration to us all.
I'm keeping you and your family in my prayers.
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