Lynda Anne Elizabeth (Gates) Shaw passed away suddenly at her residence on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the age of 83. She was born on July 27, 1941, in Strathroy, Ontario. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Robert Shaw, her loving parents, William Gates and Marion (Campbell) Gates, her brother, Duncan Gates, and her cherished sister, Sheila (Gates) Whitney.
Lynda grew up on her small, family farm in Glencoe, Ontario. She hailed from a strong Scottish farming background and in her youth, participated in activities such as showing sheep and horses at the county fairs, horseback riding and Highland dancing. She also participated in softball and volleyball – both as a player and a coach.
With the constant support of her family as well as her hard work and dedication, Lynda became the first member of her family to attend and receive post secondary education. She graduated from London Teachers College at Western University and obtained a Master of Education from the University of Toronto. Lynda dedicated her life to education and the development of young minds, beginning her career as a primary school teacher. Her unwavering commitment to excellence led to her becoming a primary consultant for the Board of Education for the City of London, where she was involved in program development initiatives that had a profound and lasting impact on countless teachers and students. Additionally, through her successful career, she forged lifelong friendships.
Through her life journey, she met the love of her life, Robert Shaw, and they shared 32 precious years together. Lynda and Bob’s marriage featured an indescribable, special bond that people only dream of experiencing and they shared a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. They enjoyed travelling the world, taking adventures, and spending time with family, friends, and all of the beloved cat companions they had throughout their lives together, including their sweet Katie.
Lynda’s enthusiasm for life was evident in her many hobbies and passions. She enjoyed golfing at West Haven Golf & Country Club, skiing at Beaver Valley Ski Club, and cheering on her favourite sports teams, such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays – to name only a couple. Lynda encapsulated what it means to be a “social butterfly,” and you could always find her talking to someone, especially about topics she was deeply interested in, such as politics, current events, and sports.
Lynda is survived by her niece, Charlene (Whitney) Murray, her husband Barry, and their daughter Mackenzie, her nephew, Ronald Gates, her niece, Leanne (Gates) Burr; her family from her marriage to Robert Shaw, son Eric (Marianne) Shaw and their children, Amanda (Justin) Tanguay and Andrew (Denise) Shaw; daughter Maria (Dan) Mader and their children, Jason (Sadie), Benjamin (Alyshia), Anne Marie, David (Nicolle) and all of her great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be conducted at Harris Funeral Home, 220 St. James St. at Richmond, on Friday, January 17 at 5 pm, preceded by visitation from 4 – 5 pm. A light reception will follow. A celebration of life will be held at Westhaven Golf & Country Club on Saturday, March 29 from 2-5 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations to Animalert Pet Adoptions, London Humane Society or a charity of choice are appreciated.