Opal Taylor Shaw

Opal Joyce Taylor Shaw, born on March 10, 1931, in Decatur, Texas, was called to her eternal home on February 14, 2025, in Dallas, Texas.

Opal or “Meme,” as she was affectionately known, impacted many who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth was one marked by family, friends, love, wisdom, wholehearted determination, and unwavering faith in God. Though her passing has left a void in the hearts of many, we ask that you remember her for the life she lived and for the profound impact she had on the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. If there is one simple way to describe her, it would be to remember her as “The Proverbs 31 Woman” whose children rise up to call her blessed.

Opal is predeceased by the love of her life, John Robert Shaw, and two sisters, Juanita Taylor Staton and Frankie Taylor McCrary. She is survived by a daughter, Pam, and sons, Monte (Debbie) Shaw and Tony (Leah) Shaw; eight grandchildren, Christian, Rebekah, Thomas (Emily), Joseph (Haley), Mercy, John (Allison), Carter, and Allison; five great-grandchildren, Avery, James, Truett, Valor, and Gideon; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her dearly.

After her graduation from Decatur High School, Opal worked in Dallas and soon after married John Shaw of Decatur. They moved to Midland, Texas, for a season then returned to Decatur where she became the first female Deputy Sheriff of Wise County with the J.R. Branch Administration. Opal found joy in music and loved to sing with her family around the piano and in her church choir. She also loved working with her hands and was an excellent seamstress. However, her favorite times were gathering around the table for meals with her family, enjoying the good food, laughter, and fellowship.

A “Celebration of Life” memorial service to honor the legacy of Opal Joyce Taylor Shaw will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Decatur —1200 Preskitt Road, Decatur, Texas. Memorials in Opal’s name may be sent to 29 Acres by mail to 3000 Moseley Road, Cross Roads, Texas, 76227, emailing connect@29acres.org, or by donating online at https://29acres.org/donate/.

The family will receive friends at the reception immediately following the memorial service in the Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church Decatur.

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