Carol Jeanne Shaw

Carol Jeanne Shaw, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, just shy of her 77th birthday.

Born on October 15, 1948, to the late Frederick and Wilma (Shoemaker) Smith, Carol's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and faith. Carol was born in La Porte and raised in Three Oaks, Michigan. Her life was enriched by her marriage to the love of her life, the late James Shaw, on June 21, 1969. Together, they cultivated a family and a home filled with warmth and joy. Carol was a devoted mother to her children, Schalonda (David) Pluta of South Bend, Indiana, and James (Deb LeRoy) Shaw of La Porte, Indiana. She was a cherished grandmother to Gregory (Madison Rogers) Shaw, Jaedyn Shaw, Bailey Lyman, Ashton Lyman, Addison Lyman, Whitley Pluta, and Waylon Pluta. She also held a special place in her heart for Deb’s daughter, Sophia.

Carol's siblings, Beth Ann Jimerson of La Porte, Marcia (Paul) Lerner of Niles, Michigan, Linda Shaver of Bourbonnais, Illinois, Beverly (Dan) Pastrick of Union Pier, Michigan, and Fred Smith of Three Oaks, Michigan, will remember her for her unwavering support and the joy she brought into their lives.

A proud graduate of Three Oaks High School in Three Oaks, Michigan, Carol's professional life was marked by her dedication and hard work. She made significant contributions to Plastic Masters, American Home Foods, and Harper Collins Book Publishing. Even after retirement, Carol's passion for serving her community shone through as she returned to work at Crichfield Elementary School, where she was a beloved figure in the lunchroom. She was a member of Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church in La Porte.

As we bid farewell to Carol Jeanne Shaw, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that deeply touched so many. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Though she has left this earthly realm, the light of her love remains, guiding us through the days ahead.

Visitation will be held from 4PM to 7PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

Funeral Services will be at 11AM Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Funeral Home. Deacon Bob Wellinski will officiate.

Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Carol’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carol Jeanne Shaw, please visit our floral store.