Willard Byron Shaw

Willard Byron Shaw, 83 years old, passed away at 4:46 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at his home with his family by his side. Willy was born on April 18, 1942, in Chicago, IL to the late Atlas P. Shaw and Martha K. Donovan. He was raised by his Aunt Elsie. He has lived in our local area since 1963, moving from North Carolina. On November 15, 1986, in Mishawaka, Willy and the former Martha Jones were united in marriage.

Along with Martha, his loving wife, and caregiver of 39 years, Willy is survived by his three children, Natalie A. (Chris) DeMatteo of Bremen, Nancy L. (Rickey) Peddycord of Plymouth, and Nicholas R. (Amie) Beckham of Cromwell; and three grandchildren, Mason H. Beckham, Maddox O. Beckham, and Maebry D. Beckham. Willy is also survived by his two nieces, Lisa Robinson and Carol Weller and their family. He will be remembered fondly by many in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret May Weller.

Willy retired in 2001 from AT & T after 38 years of employment as a communications Technician. He proudly served his country with the United States Army. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and riding his motorcycle and also time with his dog Stella by his side. Willy was quite the avid story teller and never met a stranger.

The family work like to thank center for hospice, nurse Amy and his sister-in-law Nancy Matlock.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Palmer Funeral Home, within the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan Street, Lakeville, IN. Graveside services and burial will follow at Westlawn Cemetery, North Liberty. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 12:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Willard “Willy” Shaw may be donated to the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, 2506 Grape Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences may be offered to Willy’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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