Meaghan Jamie Black

Meaghan Jamie Black, 43, of Hollister, California, passed away on September 9th, 2024. Born on March 14, 1981, in San Jose, California, Meaghan was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was married to Joseph (Joe) Robert Shavalier, and although they had no children, Meaghan was a devoted and loving "cat mom" to the late Miss Bear, a cherished member of their family.

Meaghan was the beloved daughter of Pamela Thorne and her stepfather Michael Thorne, as well as James Michael Black and her stepmother Leslie Levy August. She is survived by her sisters Megan Hicks (Michael), Caelan Thorne, and Natalie Black, and her stepbrother Nikolai (Niko) Levy. She was a proud and loving aunt to Cayden Blackwood and Malachi Blackwood, sharing in their lives with joy and care. She held a special title as "Aunty Meaghan" to nephew Andrew Carroll and nieces Samantha Carroll and Liliana Falter.

A graduate of Cornell University, Meaghan earned a degree in Environmental Sciences, reflecting her lifelong passion for the environment and the preservation, conservation, and repair of the Earth's precious resources. Her career spanned various fields, including toxic waste management, laboratory services in private companies and educational institutions, and later as a private household manager and caregiver.

Meaghan's love for the natural world was immense. She deeply appreciated creatures of all kinds, with a special fondness for cats. Her affinity for animals was matched only by her high mechanical aptitude. She could fix almost anything and strongly believed in prolonging the life of items, repurposing materials, recycling, and advocating for manufacturers to create lasting products. She used her knowledge and skills to educate everyone around her about the importance of caring for the planet and its inhabitants.

Meaghan's generosity was a hallmark of her character. She gave freely of her time and resources to her family, friends, and causes close to her heart. Her spirit of giving and her dedication to environmental stewardship will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

In honor of Meaghan's love for animals and the environment, the family requests that no flowers be sent, as they are mostly toxic to cats and Meaghan believed the floral industry was not sustainable. Instead, donations may be made in her name to Pet Friends in Hollister, CA, Ventana Wildlife Society, or The County of Santa Clara Animal Services, where Baron Leo Von Gnocchi the 15th was rescued. If you have a favorite animal welfare or environmental charity that you would prefer to support, Meaghan would encourage that as well.

A private gathering of family and friends is being planned for several months from now in San Juan Bautista, CA.

Meaghan will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched throughout her life.