Herman Edward Shaw

Herman Edward Shaw, age 91, of Edwardsville, IL, passed on Monday, January 12, 2026. Herman was born April 5, 1934, in Union, Missouri, to Robert L. Shaw and Ethel L. Aitch-Shaw, was one of six children.

Herman began his education in Union, Missouri. When his father, an Edwardsville native, moved his family back to Edwardsville, Herman continued his education at Lincoln School during segregation, where he attended through the completion of ninth grade. After school integration, he transferred to Edwardsville High School as a sophomore. In his first year, he became the first African American student to receive a varsity letter. By the time he graduated in 1953, Herman had earned an impressive ten varsity letters in football, basketball, track, baseball, and A Cappella choir.

Following high school, Herman attended Illinois State University on a football scholarship. After two years, he chose to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served as military police.

Upon returning home from military service, Herman began his professional career as a recreational therapist at Alton State Hospital. During this time, he was presented with the opportunity to work with at-risk students as a counselor in the University City School District. While serving in this role, Herman attended Webster University and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Education. This path led him to become an administrator at University City Senior High School, where he served with dedication for 32 years until his retirement.

Throughout his life, Herman demonstrated through his actions a deep commitment to the Edwardsville community, particularly to the education and well-being of children. In 1986, he and fellow Lincoln School alumni co-founded the Historic Lincoln School Alumni Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to enhance educational opportunities for youth in Edwardsville School District #7. Under Herman’s leadership, the organization awarded scholarships to high school graduates and college students, supported families during the holiday season, and provided assistance in countless other ways. He truly set the pace for fulfilling the foundation’s mission.

Herman loved music of various genres. His passion for the arts also led him to serve on the Board of Directors for the Edwardsville Symphony.

 Known for his generosity, it was not unusual to see him picking up food from various resources and delivering it to homes, churches, and food pantries. With humor and humility, he would often say, “I have to go cut the seniors’ grass”—despite being a senior himself. That was simply who Herman was. Those who knew Herman knew that fishing and golfing were among his favorite pastimes. Over the years, he also enjoyed hunting and bowling in league play.

In 2022, Herman was inducted into the Edwardsville High School Hall of Fame, a fitting honor for a man whose life reflected service, leadership, and excellence.

Herman was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Roberta and Cecilia; his brother, Earl; and a special son, Kyle Dickerson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Juanita Shaw and Cora Shaw; his devoted life partner, Elizabeth Nash; his brother, Harry (Christiana) Shaw; his sister, Carolyn (Jack) Turner; his special daughter, Iva-Surette Washum; his grandchildren, Nakita, Malcolm, Micah, and Riley; his great-grandchildren, Vincent, Navi, and Nalonni; and a host of extended family and friends.

Herman leaves a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the education and success of children. His life’s work strengthened his community and opened doors for generations to come.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 1:00 pm at St. John’s United Methodist Church. 7372 Marine Road, Edwardsville, IL 62025 with Bishop Jesse Jackson officiating.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Herman Shaw's name to the Historic Lincoln Alumni Foundation.  Condolences may be shared online at weberfuneralhome.com