Ola Jeannette Shaw, known and loved by family and friends as Jeannette, of Asheboro, North Carolina, formerly of Southern Pines and Denver, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of family and friends. 

Born in Asheboro, North Carolina, Jeannette was the daughter of the late Cleon and Lucy Shaw. She was also preceded in death by her beloved brother, Charles Shaw, and husband Tony Harkey. 

Jeannette will be lovingly remembered by her sisters, Aretta Shaw Craven and her husband, Neal, and Reba Shaw Ferdman and her husband, Larry; her sister-in-love, Anne Shaw; her nieces, Jennifer Shaw Snotherly (Howie), Jessica Shaw Cashatt (Matt), Paige Craven Burleson (Chris), and Hillary Craven Stilwell (Dan); her nephews, Brian Ferdman (Christina) and Ross Ferdman (Alicia); and many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews who brought her tremendous joy. 

A 1961 graduate of Asheboro High School, Jeannette continued her education at Appalachian State University, where she earned her Master’s degree in Education. She later earned her Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from East Carolina University. 

Jeannette dedicated her professional life to serving students, families, and communities through education. She served in many areas of the educational field throughout North Carolina and was known for her commitment, compassion, and positive influence on the lives of those she served, including at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where she was an Education Consultant. Jeannette believed in the power of education to open doors and create opportunities, and she took great pride in helping others learn, grow, and succeed. The countless students, educators, and colleagues whose lives she touched stand as part of her enduring legacy. 

Throughout her life, Jeannette embraced the world with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a deep appreciation for beauty in all its forms. She found joy in the simple pleasures of a good book, the perfect round of golf, a breathtaking mountain view, or a sunset over the Carolina coast. She loved Carolina shag dancing, discovering new places through travel, and creating memorable experiences with family and friends. 

Jeannette had a gift for finding beauty wherever she went, whether in nature, in the people she loved, or in the everyday moments that others might overlook. Her sense of adventure kept her eager to explore new destinations and embrace new opportunities, while her wit, kindness, and genuine interest in others made her a cherished companion. She lived with a spirit that was both graceful and vibrant, always ready for the next journey, the next story, or the next gathering of those she loved. 

A lifelong Methodist, Jeannette was born and raised in First United Methodist Church of Asheboro and remained active in Methodist congregations throughout North Carolina as she made her home in various communities over the years. Her faith served as a steady foundation throughout her life. 

The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 11, at Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro, North Carolina. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of Asheboro or to Randolph Hospice House. 

Jeannette's family takes comfort in the countless memories she created and the love she shared so generously. Her adventurous spirit, infectious laughter, unwavering faith, and deep love for family will be deeply missed and forever remembered. While her earthly journey ended, the lessons she taught, the kindness she extended, and the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. From the mountains she loved to the Carolina shores where she found peace, Jeannette's spirit will forever remain in the places and people she cherished most.