McDougald Funeral Home
Helen Smith Shaw, 90, widow of Edwin B. Shaw, Jr. ("Ted"), passed away peacefully Friday, May 11, 2018 at the home of her son and daughter-in-law in Anderson, South Carolina where she had been residing and cared for since 2015. Her passing was marked by a beautiful South Carolina morning with the sun, birds and butterflies seen through the windows that she loved to gaze out of and look upon the lake in the company of her constant companions, the family dogs. Prior to moving to South Carolina, she resided in Waterford, CT.
Helen was born on December 30, 1927 in Willimantic, CT, youngest child of Army Colonel Ellison S. Smith and Florence (Strong) Smith. She attended schools in Windham, CT and spent part of her high school years travelling the country with her parents, attending school and working in various war related manufacturing. Helen was one of the original "Rosie the Riveters".
Helen and Ted were high school sweethearts and they wed in February 1946 while he was still serving in the Navy aboard the submarine, U.S.S. Bumper. They had 67 inseparable years together until his passing in 2013.
When first married, Helen was employed as a telephone operator for the Southern New England Telephone Company before beginning her career as wife, mother, and homemaker. During this time, they resided in Willimantic, CT and raised their 3 sons. In their later years Helen and Ted moved to Lebanon, CT where they built their log cabin home and enjoyed being "farmers". They also traveled in their later years with trips to Europe, Canada and many US destinations.
Helen was dedicated to her family and followed her interests throughout her life. She became an accomplished seamstress, crafted works of needlepoint and embroidery, and knitted pieces that are family heirlooms now being passed through the generations. She and Ted spent many seasons fishing together seeking that trophy bass. She was active in many civic and charitable organizations, was a Red Cross volunteer and chapter leader, served as chairperson of the Willimantic Library Board and spent many years in service to St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Willimantic. Helen was a lifelong member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority; founded by young women in eastern CT.
Helen was predeceased by her two brothers, Slade S. Smith and Ellison H. Smith and her sister, Caroline Smith. She is survived by her three sons: Michael T. Shaw and his wife, Robin of St. Louis, MO; Mark B. Shaw and his wife Elizabeth of Anderson, SC and David M. Shaw of North Haven, CT. Helen left 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She will forever be missed.
The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the team from Comfort Keepers of Anderson who shared their love and devotion providing Helen with companionship and care for the last two years, especially in her final days.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, May 21 at Grace Episcopal Church, 711 S. McDuffie Street, Anderson, SC. A family committal service will be held in Willimantic, CT a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the American Humane Society or to Hospice of the Upstate.
A message of condolence may be sent by visiting www.mcdougaldfuneralhome.com. THE McDOUGALD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Anderson, SC
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