Jessie Bell Shaw

On Monday, April 3, 2023, Jessie Bell (Wilson) Shaw departed this life at the age of 86, upon lengthy illness at the Atrium Medical Center in Middletown, Ohio. Jessie was born to Mamie (Yarborough) Wilson Andrews on January 2, 1937 in Fairfield County, South Carolina. She and her three siblings, Annie Mae, Andrew, and Charles were raised in Anderson Quarry. 

Jessie often spoke of how long they had to walk back and forth to get to and from the school bus everyday. In 1954, Camp Liberty High School closed, and she transitioned to McCrorey-Liston High School, where she received her diploma. She was lovingly nicknamed in her senior yearbook as "Mae West", where she served as a Class Officer, Girl Scout, Patrol Officer, and member of the Glee Club, Basketball Team, and New Homemakers Association. Upon graduation, she moved to live with her aunt in Baltimore, Maryland where she was courted by a familiar southern gentleman, James Robert Shaw; from Rion, South Carolina. James graduated from Camp Liberty High School in 1953, and one year after college, enlisted in the US Air Force in 1955. They were married in holy matrimony on July 19, 1958, and were blessed in union 61 years with four children: daughters Debra, Mavis, and Jamie; and son, Andre.
 
Upon marriage James and Jessie were stationed at Rickenbacker Air Force Base in Columbus, Ohio where they were baptized at the Watkins Road Church of Christ and remained faithful believers. Their God-centered influence bore fruit, resulting in the baptism of all four of their children. Through numerous Air Force "tours of duty" (US: Maryland, Maine, Ohio, Texas and California; and International: Japan & England), they walked in obedience, and grew in humility and God's grace. 

As a military wife, Jessie's mind, body, and spirit was strengthened through years of life changing experiences & transitions - including her husband's frequent deployment, particularly during the Vietnam War.  Jessie learned at a young age how to be efficient and resourceful under adversity.  She believed in living within her means, and took pride in her investments. Jessie invested in several sewing machines over the years, using her talents to adequately clothe, and care for her children. While Jessie enjoyed being a housewife, she also took the initiative to earn a Retail Merchandising Certificate in 1978, and secure meaningful employment intermittently for supportive income. She enjoyed mastering her hobbies of interest, such as ceramics, cake decorating/baking, and sewing; as she always had a desire to improve her family's quality of life. 

Upon CMSGT James Shaw's retirement from 30 years in the military in 1985, he and Jessie moved to Lebanon, Ohio with their two youngest children - accepting a position as a Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corp (ROTC) Instructor at the Lebanon High School. During this time, Jessie worked as a local Walmart greeter, and joined the Ralph P. Snook American Legion Auxiliary (Unit 186), of which she was a "life" member. She served diligently over the years as a Secretary, 1st Vice Chair, and Membership Chair. Her example prompted her daughters and granddaughters to serve.

As a homemaker, Jessie made her house a home. She believed in investing in items of quality, and handled her material blessings with care. Jessie loved her family, and especially the Lord. In January 2020, her loving husband suffered a stroke contributing to lengthy illness and his ultimate passing on May 19, 2020. Jessie's faith sustained her through her trials. She triumphed through perseverance and commitment daily to keep the faith, and manage the upkeep of her home. Although her mobility was limited, she kept in touch with family and friends who where just a call away.

Upon falling ill with reoccurring illness in March 2023, Jessie's hard-fought battle ended in God calling her home. Jessie is resting in Glory, and will truly be missed by her dear children, grandchildren, great-grandson, and extended family. Her love for God, laughter, smile, and sense of humor will bring us memories for years to come. May we find comfort in knowing she's at peace, and is in the capable hands of the Almighty!

Jessie was predeceased by her beloved husband, James Robert Shaw; mother, Mamie (Yarbrough) Wilson Andrews; sister, Annie Mae Jenkins; and two brothers, Andrew Wilson Sr. and Charles Wilson. Her Father-n-law, Leroy Shaw; and Mother-n-law, Emma (Byrd) Shaw. Her Brother-n-law, Carl Shaw. Her nephew, Vincent Jenkins and great nephew, Dominic Macklin.

She is survived by her four loving children: daughters, Debra Pope, Mavis Shaw, Jamie Gee; and son, Andre Shaw. Her grandchildren: granddaughters, Shaunte Mitchell and Jada Gee; and grandson, Dijanae Pope and great-grandson, Alfredo Mitchell. Her Sister-n-laws: Eddie Mae Wilson, Mildred Plair (Charlie), and Doris Kendricks; and her Brother-n-law, Samuel Jenkins. And a host of nieces & nephews: Vicki Lynn Jenkins, Valerie Jenkins-Saffold, Verita Rogers, Rev. Shermie Brown (Thomas), Andrea Freeman (Chris), Zoe Plair, Carol Harris, Carla Shaw Manderville, Andrew Wilson Jr. (Michelle), Malcolm Wilson, Sherlock Wilson, Marcus Wilson (Regina), and extended family. 

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