Richard John Shaw served as Worthy Grand Patron with Jane McDaniel, PGM, during the 2007 session of the Grand Chapter of Louisiana. He created the first Louisiana Grand Chapter website and, as his special project, developed the first statewide membership database, which he lovingly referred to as the “Pelican Brief,” combining current and archived membership records. In recognition of these contributions, a resolution was introduced and passed at Grand Chapter to rename the Louisiana Grand Chapter website the Richard Shaw Memorial Website in his honor.

Brother Richard was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in 1942. After graduating from high school in Alabama, he joined the Air Force and was stationed at England AFB in Alexandria where he met his wife, Linda. He served 20 years in the Air Force, served two tours in Vietnam, and was awarded a Commendation Medal and a Bronze Star.  He retired to Alexandria with his wife and children. Richard then became involved in many civic organizations. He was a member of the Alexandria Masonic Lodge #398 and served as Past Master and Treasurer. He was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite and Past President and Treasurer of the Cenla Shrine Club. He was also a member of York Rite Keystone Chapter # 44 and served as Commander and Treasurer of all three York rite bodies. Richard was a member of the St. Charles Conclave of Red Cross of Constantine. He was a Past Grand Patron of the of Louisiana and Past Patron and Treasurer of Electa #10. He remained a dedicated and loyal member to all the organizations he belonged to until his passing in 2021. 

Thank you, Sister Jane McDaniel, for contributing to this tribute to your Worthy Grand Patron.