Ralph Benjamin Shaw

Ralph Benjamin Shaw, Jr., 78, peacefully passed away at home on July 7, 2016 surrounded by his family. He was born on January 9, 1938 in Decatur, GA, son of the late Ralph Benjamin Shaw, Sr. and the late Emma Tally Shaw. Mr. Shaw graduated with a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering from the University of Georgia in 1960. His first job after graduation was an engineer with WGTV-TV. He then worked for 35 years with AT&T (formerly known as Western Electric) moving from Atlanta to North Carolina in 1984. He retired as an engineer from AT&T in 1990. After retiring he enjoyed working various engineering contract positions, volunteering at his grandchildren's schools, NC Science Museum and serving at Community Baptist Church.
He was a devoted husband, a wonderful father and grandfather. He was known for his spirited sense of humor, kind nature and love of adventures. Mr. Shaw was an excellent folk dancer, song writer and story teller. He could fix anything. He enjoyed motorcycles, watching his daughter drive amateur race cars, creating beautiful woodworking pieces, playing harmonica, teaching clogging, utilizing his First Class FCC Radio Telephone License and very active in amateur radio activities. He was a devoted member of the Community Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Charlotte; his children, Kayla Shaw ; Steven Shaw (wife Datcha Shaw) of Rockville, Maryland; Christine Shaw of St. Petersburg Florida; Martha Strickland of Cumming, Georgia; David Little of Port St Lucie, Florida; Darryl Little (wife Maxine Little) of Ellijay, Georgia; Betty Ann Tilson (husband Robby D. Tilson) of Garner N.C.; Shana Y Flood of Benson, N.C.; his 11 grandchildren, Andy Little, Frank Little, Madison Little, Spencer Shaw, Christopher Strickland, Michael Strickland , Heather Martin, Josh Little, Lacey Cain, Matthew Flood and Tyler Tilson; his sister Carolyn S. McMillan of St. Simons Island, Georgia and Gainesville, Florida; many nieces and nephews; and a large extended family and friends who loved him. Family & friends will honor and remember Ralph with a Memorial Service at Community Baptist Church, 130 Commerce Pkwy #105, Garner, NC on Monday July 11, 2016 at 6:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Community Baptist Church and mailed to 130 Commerce pkwy #105, Garner, NC 27529. Please earmark as building music fund to honor Ralph's love of music.
Please visit www.rlsandersfuneralhome.net to leave condolence.