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Laura LaVada Shaw
Born: December 30th, 1936
Died: October 7th, 2022
Obituary
The beautiful spirit known as Laura LaVada Shaw, born December 30, 1936, went to be with our Heavenly Father, on October 7, 2022. Laura’s life was fully lived, overflowing with love, laughter, family, and friends. Laura always put God first and never lost her faith, even during the most difficult of times — an inspiration to us all.
Laura found tremendous satisfaction through the exploits of her children and grandchildren, helping us all in ways large and small that we will forever struggle to count. She was extraordinarily well put-together and cut a classical figure, yet she was as down-to-earth as a soul food Sunday dinner. Even to her in-laws, she was simply “Mom.” There were no guests in Laura’s presence; if you were with her, you were home.
Laura loved every type of music, from traditional spirituals to hip-hop, and she danced as long as her body was able. She was quick with a smile, quick with laughter, generous to a fault, and ready with a compliment — yet she was also a fierce and loyal protector to loved ones. Laura is preceded in death by her spouse, Henry L. Shaw, mother, Lula Mae Munday, father, Cecil Robinson, brother, Carl B. Munday, and former spouse, Dwight I. Lee.
Laura is survived by a loving family, including:
Three children: daughters Diana L. Dave (Lee) and Gina M. Thompson (Lee) (Charles); son, Wayne (Buddy) Lee.
Three grandchildren: Dina M. Sias (King) (Fred); Leo G. Dave; Nicole Buford-Johnson.
Five great-grandchildren: Skye M. Sias, Jadon D. Sias, Triston L. Sias, Nia L. Sias, and Ursula Shay Parker Lee.
Laura also leaves a host of adoring friends and extended family. While there is now a great hole where Laura LaVada Shaw once stood, the memory of this remarkable woman, our matriarch, that often-mischievous ringleader of laughter, gentle teasing, goofy photos, and dancing, will live with us forever.
Our family expresses our heartfelt thanks for all the prayers and support of friends and family throughout this time. In lieu of flowers or gifts, we ask that any donations be directed to the Scleroderma Research Foundation (https://srfcure.org/support-us/ways-to-give/).