James Slaton "Jay" Shaw

James Slaton "Jay" Shaw, 67, surrounded by family, died peacefully at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta on April 20, 2015. A longtime public servant, Shaw served as the Mayor of Lakeland for 10 years, a champion for the state of Georgia where he served in the General Assembly representing State House District 176 for 18 years. Presently he was serving on the Board of the Georgia Department of Transportation and had recently completed a term as the Chairman.

Jay Shaw was known by a reputation that he led by his word and followed through on his promises. Shaw was known and loved for his boundless energy, friendly and cheerful spirit, quick wit, keen intellect, and common sense. Those in need of support or a helping hand could always count on Shaw's compassion. He took his responsibilities as a citizen very seriously. Many referred to his "heart of gold."

Mr. Shaw was born in Lakeland, Georgia, on November 6, 1947, to the late Doris Pafford and Charles Slaton Shaw. He grew up in Lakeland and attended the public schools before attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton. Jay was a standout on the tennis team at ABAC.

An active man of wide-ranging interests, Shaw was an avid outdoorsman. He combined a successful insurance business with a remarkable record of public service. As he moved easily among people and groups in all walks of life, his life reflected a man who generously shared his time, talents, and resources with others.

Shaw served as a Trustee and Board member of the Unity United Methodist Church in Lakeland. He served on countless committees and in service organizations throughout the state in the areas of transportation, health care, business, education, agriculture and forestry. He was known for his common sense and his support for South Georgia. His leadership abilities enabled him to facilitate positive changes in all these areas. When applying for a position with Dewar Properties, Jimmy Dewar asked Jay what his goal in life was. Jay replied, " I just want to live in Lakeland, Georgia and have everybody love me." Jay achieved that goal!

Survivors include his loving wife Libby of 45 years and two sons and daughters-in-law: Jason & Katy Shaw and Sam & Christa Shaw; four grandchildren: Jenna Shaw, Brady Shaw, Anne Harvey Shaw, and Slaton Shaw of Lakeland; brother & sister-in-law: Loyd & Margaret Ann Shaw of Lakeland; sister & brother-in-law: Emily & Fred Anderson of Valdosta, sisters-in-law & brother-in-law: Zellna Shaw and Sue & Jimmy Benefield of Lakeland. Other survivors include many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

Mr. Shaw was preceded in death by his parents and brother Charles Ramer Shaw of Lakeland and brother and sister in law Dixie and Ann Murray of Brunswick.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 from 5-8 p.m. at the Threatte Center in Lakeland.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Southside Baptist Church in Lakeland on Thursday, April 23, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Unity United Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers you may give to the memorial of your choice or the Fannie Smith Pafford Memorial Fund at Unity United Methodist Church, 11 E Chestnut Avenue, Lakeland, Georgia 31635. Sympathy may be expressed online at www.musicfuneralservices.com . Music Funeral Services, Lakeland is serving the Shaw family.



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