Billy "Bill" Wayne Shaw, Sr. Ph.D.

Dr. Billy “Bill” Wayne Shaw, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, esteemed educator, proud veteran, devoted church member, and passionate outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, at the age of 92. He was born in Selma, Louisiana, on December 5, 1932, to James Leondis Shaw and Francis Lucinda Slayter Shaw.

Dr. Shaw married his beloved wife and lifelong sweetheart Justine Elanor McMurray of Winnfield, Louisiana, on April 15, 1954. Together, they had two sons, Billy Wayne Shaw, Jr. and Robert Britain Shaw. 

Dr. Shaw served in the U.S. Army from July 21, 1954, to July 20, 1956, and held the rank of 1st Lieutenant at the time of his honorable discharge. He was awarded a Ph.D. in Education by the University of Missouri in 1964. He taught at Northwestern State University from 1965 until his retirement in 1997, after serving as the head of the Department of Industrial Arts. He was subsequently named Professor Emeritus by NSU in recognition of his dedicated service and contributions to the field of education. Bill was an active member and deacon of First Baptist Church of Natchitoches, where he found joy in serving his community and faith. He was a dedicated family man who valued his time with his sons, Bill, Jr. and Bobby, and was a doting grandfather to their children. He was known for his kind heart and unwavering support. In his younger years, he was an avid quail hunter and bass fisherman. 

He is preceded in death by Justine, his wife of 62 years; his parents; his brothers, Earl Shaw and Hershel Shaw; and his sisters, Dr. Marie Shaw Dunn, Ruby Jenkins and Rita Walter. He is survived by his youngest sister, Kayla Brossette of Alexandria, Louisiana; his sons; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service for Dr. Shaw will to be held at Calvary Baptist Church of Natchitoches Friday, March 14, 2025, 11 AM.