Carl Lewis Shaw, 84, of Prescott

Carl Louis Shaw, 84, of Prescott, Arkansas, was called home to be with his Heavenly Father on June 23, 2025. His life was a shining example of courage, character, and unwavering faith. A devoted husband, proud father, decorated veteran, servant leader, and faithful follower of Christ—Carl lived with purpose and walked with grace.

Born on April 12, 1941, in Prescott, Arkansas, Carl was the son of the late Alton Shaw and Mary Etta Snyder. He was raised with love and wisdom by his grandmother, Ada Shaw, who laid the foundation for the values that would guide his life: faith, hard work, and perseverance.

Carl’s journey wasn’t always easy, but he never let life’s challenges define him. As a young man, he found Christ and began a life-changing spiritual walk at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Prescott. From that moment forward, faith became the compass that directed every step he took.

At just 17 years old, Carl courageously enlisted in the United States Army. He served with distinction during the Vietnam War and retired as a Sergeant First Class in 1979. His military career was marked by honor, resilience, and leadership—qualities that followed him into every chapter of life.

One of Carl’s greatest blessings was his marriage to his devoted wife, Queenie Shaw—his high school sweetheart and true partner in life. Together, they built a strong, blended family grounded in love and unity. Carl is survived by his children, Carl Jr. (San Antonio, Texas) and Angela Shaw (Coffeyville, Kansas); and his stepchildren, Andre Lewis (Killeen, Texas), Juan Lewis (San Antonio, Texas), Sonja Davis (Houston, Texas), Chiquitia Stueart (Houston, Texas), and Angela Sawyer (Elmore City, Oklahoma). He loved each of them deeply and without condition.

Carl’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren—Tristan, Morgan, Quintan, Kaylan, and Tavion—as well as his cherished step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His pride in them was immeasurable, and he celebrated every accomplishment, large or small.

Carl’s faith grew stronger with time. As a committed member and Deacon of Carrie Street Church of God in Gurdon, Arkansas, he served faithfully with humility and heart. He believed that nothing should come between a man and his service to God—and he lived that belief every day.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandmother; sisters—Mary Helen Brown, Celia Ann Palmer, and Joyce Bufford; and his brother, Alton Shaw.

He leaves behind his brother and lifelong friend, O.C. “Trouble” Willingham, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and treasured friends.

Carl will forever be remembered for his generous spirit, deep belly laugh, and the porch talks that filled hearts with wisdom and warmth. His life is proof that with faith, love, and resilience, you can rise from humble beginnings and leave behind a legacy that inspires generations to come.

A celebration of Carl’s remarkable life will be held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Prescott, Arkansas on 28 June 2025 at 2:00pm.