On December 23, 1959, the late Earl and Daisy Trotter Shaw became the proud parents of their fourth child and only son, Earl Mack Shaw, Jr. He was clearly the best Christmas gift ever given to the Shaw family and loved dearly. Earl Jr. as he was affectionately known throughout the community was a happy child, always following behind his sisters, Essie, Earline, and Stella, who doted on him lovingly.
Earl Jr. was always helpful to the neighbors and senior citizens within the community. He professed his life in Christ at early age and was baptized at the Middleton & Payne Street Church of Christ.
His greatest pleasure was working alongside his father, mother,in the family business, Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home, Inc. Earl Jr. started in the business as a young boy – dusting, cleaning bathrooms, washing cars and worked his way up to answering the telephone. With his father, mother, and Lewis T. Brantley as his role models and mentors, Earl Jr. learned the importance of personal customer service, for families in their time of need. “THE VERY BEST IN SO MANY WAYS was not just a motto, but an active way of life.
Earl Jr. attended Jackson-Central Merry High School, graduating in 1978 and also in 1978 he became a Licensed Funeral Director. He continued his education at Morehouse College, earning a degree in Business Administration in 1982. From Morehouse College, Earl Jr. followed his passion and attended John A. Gupton College for Mortuary Science, graduating in 1984.
His main objective was to serve families effectively and professionally during their most difficult time. His commitment to community involvement has been a cornerstone for over 38 years. Upon the death of his father in 1987, Earl Jr. officially assumed the position as President and Chief Financial Officer of Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home, Inc.
In 1987, Earl Jr. married the woman of his dreams, Beverly Ann Wade. Together they successfully continued to provide the same quality service in keeping with our established motto, “THE VERY BEST IN SO MANY WAYS” while serving the community and throughout West Tennessee. Earl Jr. and Beverly continue to carry the tradition of and legacy of Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home, Inc.
Earl Jr.’s love for his family, nieces, nephews, and friends will forever remain in their hearts. He was fun, kind, unselfish, compassionate, bossy, and cool. He loved life, good food, good jazz music, cowboy boots, and guns. Earl Jr. adored his family and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Those to cherish loving memories: Wife – Beverly Ann Wade Shaw “Sweetie” Children: Amber Danielle Shaw and her Mother, Marjorie Sizemore, San Antonio, TX; Earl Mack Shaw, III and Chandler Elizabeth Shaw of Jackson, TN; Grandson – Daniel Cameron Shaw Moore, San Antonio, TX; Sisters – Mrs. Essie Shaw Woods (Dr. William Earl Woods, MD), Waukegan, IL; Dr. Earline Shaw Williams, Ph.D (Olice Williams), Jacksonville, FL; Mrs. Stella Shaw Wilson (Dr. Robert Wilson III, Ed.D), Atlanta, GA; Mother-in-Law – Mrs. Virginia Dickerson Wade, Alamo, TN; sister-in-law: JoAnn Sumrall (Fred) Nashville, TN; brothers-in-law: Travis Wade Jr (Gail) of Brownsville, TN, Winkey Wade (Pam) and Mendal Wade (Lisa) both of Jackson, TN. and a host of nieces and nephews who will always cherish special memories and special moments with their “Uncle Earl” within their hearts.
The professional, dedicated, loving and support team of Stephenson-Shaw Funeral Home, Inc. will always be an integral part of our family, of our professional support team the following have served continually over 35 years: James Rodney Golden, William L. Kimmins, Travis P. Franklin Sr., Sean A, Kimmins Sr. and Sherrod A. Kimmins
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Rest in Peace my parents Mable and Eddie Campbell adored you and you adored them. May God strengthen you and your family. The Campbell Family.