William W. Shaw Jr.

William W. Shaw Jr., DOVER, formerly of Harrington, DE, passed away peacefully, on Monday, September 30, 2024 from the Dover Place Assisted Living facility, he was 87.

Mr. Shaw was born in Milford, DE to the late, William "Pete" Sr. and Bernice Shaw.

Mr. Shaw served his country proudly in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959, and again in 1963 though 1968.  After his service, and completion of a Masters Degree, Mr. Shaw became a teacher in the Caesar Rodney School District, where he taught English, History, and Geography, for over 34 years.

Mr. Shaw was an avid gardener, liked to river cruise, travel, and read.  He enjoyed listening to music, especially classical.  Family was the top priority in his life and he was very devoted to them.  Even after the loss of his wife, he continued to grow as a person, fighting courageously through cancer and other adversities.  He was a true fighter and continued to love life through it all, and was a true inspiration to his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  His kindness has always shown through as well as his unending Faith.  He left an impression on the staff of the Dover Place where he resided the last 7 years, and they truly loved him.  He will be greatly missed.

Mr. Shaw was an active member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church of Harrington, where he taught confirmation classes and mentored in Education of Ministry, member of the American Legion CKRT Post #7, Harrington Senior Center, and a member of the Hollywood Cemetery Board.

Mr. Shaw is preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Magaret "Megan" Shaw.

He is survived by his step-son, Cornelius “Kit” A. Tilghman, III, and wife, Jane; step-daughter, Mary-Lou Tilghman and husband, Dietmar; grandchildren, Tyler, Ginny, Margo, Carlie and Fiona Tilghman; 3 great grandchildren; and a sister, Joan Shaw Wilhelm and her two children Debbie Rifken & James Wilhelm.

Services will be at a later date at the discretion of the family.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, please visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to express or send condolences.