Mary Shaw Obituary
Mary DuBose Shaw
September 15, 1924 – October 23, 2025
Born on September 15, 1924, in Florence, South Carolina, Mary DuBose was the beloved only child of Cecelia Spears and Lawton Howard DuBose. Exceptionally intelligent from a young age, Mary was known for her quick wit and sharp mind-though she nearly failed home economics, as cooking and sewing were not her favorite pursuits. Thankfully, a few kind classmates helped her finish a dress, allowing her to pass the class and graduate.
Mary attended the University of South Carolina, where she met her future husband, Joe E. Shaw. She loved to dance the night away, and during her college years, she even taught shag lessons in Ocean Drive to earn extra money.
When World War II broke out, Mary proudly served on the home front, driving a large transport truck for the Army Guard in Florence. After the war, she married Joe, a Navy veteran, and together they made their home in Georgetown, South Carolina. There they raised three children: Pam, Joe, and Celia.
Mary had a photographic memory-especially when it came to bridge. After a tournament, few of her opponents still thought of her as "sweet," but all admired her skill!
A talented businesswoman, Mary opened The Shaw House Bed & Breakfast in 1983, the first B&B in Georgetown. She lovingly ran it for more than 40 years, welcoming guests from near and far. For her, it was more than a business-it was a ministry. Before guests departed, she made sure they met Jesus Christ, her greatest passion. Many returned year after year, cherishing both her hospitality and her faith.
Mary's lifelong devotions were to Jesus Christ and her family. In times of crisis, her loved ones always turned to her for prayer and guidance, knowing she had a direct line to Heaven.
Mary was predeceased by her husband of 69 years, Joe Shaw. She is survived by her children, Pam Dunn (Levon), Joe Shaw (Marianne), and Cecelia Grayson (Sammy); grandchildren Mary Peck (Mike), Katy Weaver (Dan), Hunter Cuthbertson (Danielle), Jennifer Midthun (Ted), Joseph Shaw (Kara), Burton Powell (Courtney), Lawton Powell (Sierra), and Anne Brookes Powell; and 12 great-grandchildren. A special thank you to Sabina and Meagan with Gentiva Hospice for their friendship and tireless care of Mary.
A Memorial Service will be held at The Abbey, 46 Gathering Lane, Pawleys Island at 1:00 PM Saturday, November 1, 2025. A reception will follow the service in the library at The Abbey. Interment will be held privately prior to the Memorial Service in the Florence National Cemetery beside her husband, Joe.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in her memory be given to The Abbey:
https://theabbeypawleysisland.com/Give.html
Her family and friends rejoice in knowing she is now home with her Savior.
We love you, Mom.
The Maryville Chapel of Mayer-Ethridge Funeral Home is proud to serve the Shaw Family.
843-546-4184
Published by Kingstree News on Oct. 24, 2025.