Life Reflections

Sayris Bernard Shaw was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 16, 1963. His beloved parents Hearther Lee Perry-Shaw and Father John Earl Shaw both made their transition in earlier years. Sayris Bernard attended Donuhue Elementary School and graduated from Wendell Phillips High School in 1981. Sayris played football, he participated in the ROTC Program and was a member of the band while in high school. He was a devoted man of Christ and was baptized with his Mother and siblings in 1979.

Sayris began his college career at Langston University where he made an impact working with Upward Bound. Sayris was an active member of the Baptist Student Union under the direction of his beloved Sis. Verlene Farmer Goatley. Sayris was a member of the much respected, BSU Scripture Memory Choir. Sayris obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Sayris accepted the right hand of fellowship and ordained as a minister of the Gospel at Mt. Bethel Baptist Church in Langston, Oklahoma in 1988. After receiving his degree in Sociology, Sayris served at several detention and behavioral health centers.

He and the love of his life, Tamanitha, married on August 25, 1990 in Chicago. They made their home in Dallas, Texas and raised a wonderful young man named Timothy. Sayris enjoyed being a loving grandfather and doted on all five grandchildren.

Sayris and Tamanitha united with True Believers Baptist Church in Dallas where he served faithfully.

Sayris LOVED to laugh, joke, and spend time with friends and family. Sayris will be remembered for his loving relationship with food! He had a true appreciation for good food!

As a businessman, Sayris owned and operated Shaw’s Lawn and Tree Removal Services where he was free to serve the community and share the love of Christ with his workers and those with whom he interacted.

Sayris leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Tamanitha (Tammy), Dallas, TX, son, Timothy (spouse) Flewelen, Frisco, TX. His siblings: brothers, Reginald Shaw, Sr. (Bernice), Orlando Jerome Shaw, Terra Shaw, Sr. (Tonya), Johnny Earl, Jr. all of Chicago, Illinois, and sister, Tara Shaw, Oklahoma City, OK.

Sayris was adored by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and will be remembered in the hearts of his many friends.