Daphinie Shaw Bledsoe

1928 - 2024

Daphinie Shaw Bledsoe
04/22/1928 - 03/11/2024
Daphinie Shaw Bledsoe, a beacon of love and wisdom, departed from this earthly realm on Monday, March 11, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on April 22, 1928, in Marlin, Texas, she was the cherished sixth child of James Henry Shaw and Sylvia Randle Shaw, both of whom she joins in eternal rest.
Daphinie's journey through life was marked by love, service, and unwavering faith. On October 21, 1946, she united in marriage with Wilbart Bledsoe, and together they nurtured a beautiful family of six children. Their shared commitment to education and high standards set the foundation for their children's success, instilling in them values that would shape their lives forever.
A woman of profound compassion and dedication, Daphinie's professional life was a testament to her commitment to uplifting others. She served as a beacon of hope for the less fortunate as a Community Action Program Leader, assisted in guiding the youth through her involvement with the 4H Club, provided care and guidance to children as the Daycare Director of Carver Culture Center in Levelland, and faithful volunteer at AMOS in Midland. Her impact extended beyond her professional endeavors, as she also served as Vice President on the Board of Trustees for the Community Sick Baby Clinic, touching the lives of countless families in need.
Throughout her life's journey, Daphinie stood as a pillar of strength and support alongside her husband, Rev. Wilbart Bledsoe, as he faithfully served as a pastor in various communities. Her unwavering dedication to their shared mission was evident as they traversed through Moody, Froze, Gatesville, Valley Mills, Georgetown, Levelland, and finally to Hollowell United Methodist Church in Midland, Texas, where they retired in 1976. Even after her move to Houston in 2017, her commitment to her faith remained steadfast.
Daphinie's magnetic personality and genuine warmth left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Whether in her roles as a devoted wife, nurturing mother/grandmother, or trusted friend, she embodied qualities of love, sincerity, humor, and strength. Her favorite motto, "We have to be helpers of each other," exemplified her selfless spirit and compassionate heart.
She was preceded in death by Wilbart and daughter Betty Jean Lathan and leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by her surviving loved ones: daughters Mary Louise Bledsoe of Dallas, Texas, and Sylvia (Jimmie) Sims of Humble, Texas; sons Bishop Wilbert Earl (Leslie) Bledsoe of Houston, Texas, Pervis (Gwen) Bledsoe of Stonecrest, Georgia, and Larry Bledsoe of Temple, Texas; as well as 17 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 15 great-great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her niece Alice Shaw, nephew Bobby Shaw, her play sister Ms. Ophelia Hurd, and a host of relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Services to celebrate the life of Daphinie Shaw Bledsoe will be held on Thursday, March 28, at 11:00 am, viewing 10:00 am at the Visionary Hollowell Community United Methodist Church, 400 South Marshall, Midland, Texas, with Reverend Wendell Smith officiating.Arrangements areentrusted to Brownwood Funeral Home, Brownwood Texas. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery, where her spirit will continue to shine bright in the hearts of all who were touched by her presence.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Visionary Hollowell United Methodist Church in honor of Daphinie's lifelong commitment to serving those in need.