Claire B. Shaw, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully Feb. 23, 2026, at the age of 91. Born Oct. 28, 1934, in Jersey City, she was the cherished daughter of the late William and Hazel Higgins. Claire’s early years were spent in Bayonne, where she met and married the love of her life, James Shaw. Together, they planted their roots in Keansburg in 1959, nurturing a large and loving family.
Claire’s life was marked by her unwavering devotion to her family, a trait that was the cornerstone of her existence. She was predeceased by her husband in 1986; her daughters, Susan Jones and Jennifer Hegarty; her granddaughter Narissa; and her sisters, Geraldine Soloway and Hazel Tomei.
Her legacy continues through her surviving children: Claire Bartkewicz and her companion Patrick Christopher; Heather Shaw and her wife Susan LaBella; Melissa Shaw and her wife Ellen Budelman; James N. Shaw IV and his wife Sharon; and Peter W. Shaw and his wife Angela. She is also survived by her sister Margaret Clifton. Claire’s joy was multiplied by her grandchildren – Matthew, Daniel, Elizabeth, Erin, Mitchell, Zachary, Brandon and Kevin – and further enriched by her five great-grandchildren – Julia, Vivian, Sebastian, Matthew and Koa. She was well-loved by her many nieces and nephews.
After the loss of her husband, Claire entered the workforce, serving the Borough of Keansburg as the Code Enforcement secretary for two decades. She retired at the age of 70, having left an indelible mark on her community through her diligent service. Claire’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. Her family was her pride and joy, and she traveled extensively to maintain the bonds she held so dear. A constant presence at family gatherings, Claire was often seen capturing moments through her camera lens, preserving memories for generations to cherish.
A woman with a green thumb, Claire’s plants were a testament to her nurturing spirit; every plant and flower she touched seemed to flourish under her care. Her creative side found joy in ceramics and crocheting, hobbies that allowed her to express her love for beauty and craftsmanship. Claire’s love for animals was evident in her affection for her beloved dog, Ripken. Claire was a member of the Manning Place Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary and the Matawan Elks Ladies Auxiliary, two organizations that she was involved with alongside her husband.
A devout Catholic, Claire was a communicant of St. Ann’s Church in Keansburg, where her faith was a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew her. Described by those who loved her as loving, kind and faith-filled, Claire’s presence was a gift to her family, friends and community.
Claire B. Shaw’s life was a tapestry of love, service and faith. Her memory will be cherished and her spirit will continue to guide those she has left behind. As her family bids farewell to this remarkable woman, they celebrate the legacy of love she has bequeathed to them all.
Friends and relatives paid their respects March 1 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated March 2 at St. Ann’s Church in Keansburg. Burial and committal followed at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Keyport.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Joseph’s Indian School at give.stjo.org or to St. Ann’s Church at stannkeansburg.org.
The article originally appeared in the March 5 – 11, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
