Four Oaks, NC: Ms. Barbara Gail Shaw, age 81 of Shaw’s Pond Road passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC leaving behind a legacy as colorful as the art she shared with the world. The family will receive friends from 6:00PM to 8:00PM on Monday, May 11, 2026 at Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Four Oaks. Funeral Services will be 11:00AM Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Mill Creek Christian Church in Bentonville, NC. Rev. Carl Frazier will officiate. Burial will follow in the Beasley Family Cemetery in Bentonville, NC.

Barbara was born September 29, 1944 in Johnston County to the late Daniel Calvin and Carrie Lee Beasley Shaw. She was preceded in death by her brother, Philip Carl Shaw. From her youth, Barbara stood out from the crowd; her peers recognized her unique spirit early on, voting her “Most Original” in high school- a title she lived up to throughout her entire life. She graduated from Four Oaks High School and then went on to receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in Art Education at Atlantic Christian College. A dedicated educator and artist, Barbara spent years sharing her passions with others. She taught art and floral design, helping countless students find their own creative voices and appreciate the beauty in a perfectly arranged bloom. Barbara’s intellectual curiosity and craftsmanship extended into many fields; she was a talented quilter, a humorous poet, inviting family to yearly gatherings, and a caretaker of family history. She was also a dedicated author who chronicled her church’s history, ensuring that the stories of those who came before were never forgotten. Babara loved Mill Creek Chrisitan Church and served her church in many different capacities.

Known for being honest and forthright, Barbara was a woman you could count on for the truth. She didn’t mince words, and her integrity – paired with a sharp and delightful sense of humor – was the bedrock of her many friendships. Yet, for all her accomplishments and community involvement, her heart always resided at home. She was happiest when surrounded by her family and her beloved pets. Barbara’s unique perspective, creative soul, and unwavering honesty will be deeply missed by all who had privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a world made more beautiful by her art and more grounded by her truth.

She is survived by her nephew, Chris Hinnant and wife, Anna Marie of Wilmington; niece, Melissa Finch and husband David of Four Oaks; and great-nieces and nephews, Rhys Finch, Thomas Hinnant, Zoie Finch, Emerson Hinnant, and Ely Finch; her sister-in-law, Judy C. Shaw; and numerous cousins and extended family.

Flowers are welcomed; however, memorials may be made to the Disabled Veterans of American of Johnston County, PO Box 1036, Smithfield NC 27577-1036 , or the Bentonville Fire Department, c/o James Beasley.

The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Four Oaks.