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John Shaw |
Lifelong learner who helped others
JOHN Shaw left school when he was 15 to work for the Royal Mail. But he returned to education aged 30, gaining a law degree from a leading university, and then, in his retirement, taught for the University of the Third Age, the college that promotes lifelong learning.
John, who died aged 75, was born in Merseyside, although he lived in Camden for more than 40 years. His father was a customs official and part-time writer.
Aged 15, John joined the Royal Mail before doing five years in the RAF, where he reached the rank of corporal.
He would tell his friends that one of his more laborious duties was standing guard outside an underground bunker in the wilds of Scotland. He then returned to the Royal Mail and worked for the Communication Workers Union as a steward. John decided he wanted to continue his education and moved to London to study law at the London School of Economics, where he stayed on to teach law for the rest of his working career.
John is remembered by friends for his energy, commitment and curiosity.
After retiring, he travelled the world. He had a strong sense of social justice and wanted to stick up for the underdog: he dedicated his later years to various forms of charitable work. His interests ranged far and wide: as well as being a director and trustee for Age Concern in Camden, he was a trustee for SPH friends, a charitable organisation linked to the St Pancras Housing Association which offers grants to people who need help with basics for their homes. He was asked by the Town Hall to help advise on what type of facilities the next generation of Camden’s care homes should offer.
His daughter Monica Shaw said: “He was a devoted father and a man who believed passionately in helping others. He was strongly attached to this part of London and was well known for his enthusiastic approach to life, his love of travelling and his sense of humour, even during his illness.”
Age Concern Camden’s chief executive officer Gary Jones said “John was a stalwart supporter of ACC. He was active right till the end, attending meetings, reviewing accounts and visiting sites. He had a sharp intellect, but a warm heart and wicked sense of humour too, and will be missed by all.”
DAN CARRIER |
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