Dr. Thomas Shaw

On Saturday, March 11, 2023, a graveside service will be held at 10:30am at Crestview Memorial Park Cemetery in Wichita Falls, TX, and a memorial service will be held at 2:00pm at 1st Presbyterian Church in Wichita Falls, TX.

Dr. Shaw was born May 25, 1930 in Wichita Falls, TX to Lloyd L. and Flora Mabry Shaw. He married the love of his life, Joan Haigler in Monte Vista, CO on June 26, 1957; they were married over 65 years.

Dr. Shaw earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Midwestern State University in 1951 and a Master of Music Education from the University of North Texas in 1952. He then proudly served his country in the US Air Force as Airman 1st Class, from 1952 to 1956, after which he went on to earn his Doctor of Education degree from the University of North Texas in 1971. In 1998, Dr. Shaw was awarded “Outstanding Alumni in Fine Arts” by the Ex-Students Association at Midwestern State University.

Dr. Shaw began his teaching career as choir director in the U.S. Air Force and at Wichita Falls High School; he excelled in his music career at several colleges, and retired as the Director of Fine Arts for Wichita Falls Independent School District. He was a gifted vocalist, director, teacher and administrator. Over his 60-year career, Dr. Shaw touched the lives of thousands of students, encouraging and teaching them in the fine arts and music. He was a long-time member of 1st Presbyterian Church in Wichita Falls and performed as a soloist and choir member in the annual Christmas performance of Handel’s “Messiah” over 70 years.

Survivors include, his wife Joan Haigler Shaw; 3 children, Thomas Shaw, Jr. and wife Cathy, Mark Shaw and wife Carolyn, and Sara Jenkins and husband Bob; grandchildren, Thomas Shaw III, Mary Elizabeth Edgerley, Barrett Lloyd Shaw, Julia Renee Shaw, Kathryn Mabry Jenkins, Emily Anne Jenkins, Natalie Lynn Jenkins; great grandchildren, Joseph Thomas Shaw, David Isaac Shaw, and Ava Noelle Edgerley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Flora Shaw and his brother, Bernar Shaw.

Dr. Shaw was a devoted believer in Jesus Christ and served his church as choir director, Sunday school teacher and elder throughout his life. He was a Patriot, a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend. He was always quick to encourage and share the love of Christ. He had the privilege of loving seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He blessed all who knew him; his legacy lives through the lives he touched!