Leonard Abel Shaw, 80, of Dallas, Texas, passed peacefully on August 6, 2025, surrounded by family.
Leonard was born on May 16, 1945 to Columbus Shaw, Sr. and Carrie Smith Shaw, and was the eldest of their five children. He grew up in Dallas, Texas, graduating with the Lincoln High School Class of 1963. After serving his country in the U.S. Air Force, he built a life in Connecticut where he married Daphne Chenier Shaw and together they raised their family. Leonard later retired from the Hartford Police Department before returning to his hometown of Dallas to spend his remaining years.
Leonard’s life was filled with music. He had a deep passion for jazz, funk, and every soulful sound in between, and he found immense joy in playing the tenor saxophone. His music was more than a pastime—it was an extension of his spirit. Just as memorable was his booming, infectious belly laugh, the kind of laughter that filled a room and wrapped all who heard it in warmth and joy.
He was preceded in death by his son, Anthony Leonard Shaw; his parents; and his siblings, Carolyn Louise Showers Laster, Columbus Shaw, Jr., Brenda Maxwell, and Bernard Shaw.
Leonard is survived by his daughter, Christine Shaw, and grandson, Grayson L. Shaw. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved nieces, who brought him peace and joy during his transition, Kymberly A. Shaw, Karen V. Showers and LaTishia A. Golden; along with other nieces, nephews and relatives.
Interment of his ashes with military honors will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.