James Edward Shaw, 83

A celebration of life for James Edward Shaw, 83, of Gainesville, was held Sept. 14, 2026, at Just Jackie’s in Pontiac. He died Sept. 10, at Baxter Health Hospital in Mountain Home, Arkansas. He was born Nov. 9, 1942 in Kansas City, Missouri to Jesse James and Mary Reba (Crabtree) Shaw.

James was a 1960 graduate of Gainesville High School. He joined the Navy in 1960 and served his country until 1964, stationed in San Diego, California. He married Mickey Allen in 1970; the couple had no children. James worked for JE Dunn out of Kansas City as a contractor for several years.

He was elected sheriff of Ozark County from 1985-1988. He served as a deputy two years prior to being elected sheriff. James always enjoyed spending time with friends, and in recent years, was a favorite at Just Jackie’s in Pontiac.

He is survived by sister, Margurette Shaw Gwartney of Pontiac; nephews: Donald Keith Herd and wife Shawna of Pontiac and Chuck Hannaford of Republic; niece, Theresa Lyn Herd Hall and Randy Hall of Brantley, Alabama; stepsister, June Rhodes Hillhouse and Loren of Gainesville; Joyce Motte and Bill of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Joan Rhodes of Wichita, Kansas; and nieces and nephews: Donald Keith Herd Jr. of Blytheville, Arkansas, Harper Herd, Fred Herd, Abel Herd, Elizabeth Herd Spear, Tyler Spear, Jackson Odell, Loralei Spear of Pontiac, Corey Hillhouse and Hope of Gainesville, Shelly Hillhouse of Springfield, Gayla Murphy and David of Gainesville. He also leaves behind those who held a special place in his heart and were truly family to him: his long-time friend, Jackie Klineline of Pontiac; and those he loved like grandchildren, Todd and April Luna, Hunter, Chase and Stella Luna of Gainesville.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Mary Shaw; sister, Patsy Ann (Shaw) Hannaford; stepbrother, Harold Rhodes and Pat; stepsisters, Ruth Rhodes and Reba Vick.

Cremation services are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.