ELDER HAROLD LAVERNE SHAW, formerly of Wilmington, OH passed away peacefully on June 17, 2017 at his residence in Hebron, Nebraska with his children, Peggy Shaw-McBee and Philip Shaw at his side.

He was an only child, born December 10, 1932 in Hillsboro, OH, the son of LeRoy and Mary Ethel Hoffer Shaw. He was raised in New Burlington, OH by his mother and father. His father passed away when Vernon was 13 years old.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn Faye Messer Shaw.

He is survived by his children: William Lynn Shaw, Peggy Shaw-McBee and Philip Shaw; 4 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was ordained as a Primitive Baptist Minister in April, 1962 along with Deacon Joe Robinette. Above all, Brother Shaw, as most called him, loved and worshipped the Lord. He could light up a room with his warm, infectious, kind smile and he genuinely loved people and everyone loved him in return. He pastored several churches throughout his 56 years of ministry preaching God's word, performing countless baptisms, weddings, and funeral services.

Concurrent with his work in ministry, Vernon was a heavy equipment operator which often took him away from home for days and weeks at a time. He was a great provider for his family and a loving husband, dad, and son. During his off-season time from working heavy machinery, he traveled to the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptist Churches throughout OH, KY, TN, and VA preaching at Union Meetings and Revivals. He said his greatest joys and privileges were staying in the homes of God’s people and praising His name.

In his spare time, he enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and fishing, often saying the only thing that made it better was a hot cup of coffee. One of his greatest gifts was his listening skills and his ability to know what to say at the most difficult moments. He was a life-long learner and was always interested in hearing what others had to share.

Vernon was a Veteran of the United States Navy. He served during the Korean Conflict as a cook on the LSD, USS Donner, from 1950-1953. He was a 32nd degree Mason and member of the Scottish Rite with the Waynesville Masonic Lodge #163. He is greatly missed by his family, church family and all who knew him.

-Written by his daughter, Peggy Shaw-McBee