John D Shew

John D. Shew, 64, entered the gates of Heaven peacefully on Friday, October 20, 2023, held and surrounded by his loved ones. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years and “angel on Earth”, Katherine Shew; children, Stephanie (Shaun) Thomas, Jeremiah (Tiffany) Shew, Rev. Robert (Melinda) Shew, Sarah (Kyle) Moles; 10 grandchildren, Savannah(17), Shayne(14), Jayce(10), Wyatt(7), Samuel(5), Aislee(5), Gavin(2), Kyler(2), Micah(1), and Meadow(7 months); father, Robert O. Shew; father and mother-in-law, Rev. Bernard (JoAnn) Christy; brothers, Ricky (Judy) Wilkins, Rev. David (Sherry) Shew, and sister, Karen Hamlin; many brother and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and church family whom he all loved so much.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Lenore Shew. 

John was born and raised in Akron, Ohio and was a graduate of the Springfield High School Class of 1977.  He was the life of the room; full of sports knowledge, one-liner jokes, whit, and so much fun. John was creative with a love for music, teaching himself to play acoustic guitar and harmonica. He had a passion for softball, bowling and martial arts, practicing Kung-Fu for over 30 years until his body was no longer able. 

He surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and joined the ministry in 1994, becoming the Youth Pastor of Harmony Baptist Church where he served until his last day. He was instrumental in building the Sunday School & Youth Program as well as the Bus Ministry. His testimony reached hundreds of children and youth - he was strong, a warrior, and a survivor. For over 20 years he battled many health and chronic illnesses, but never complained or questioned… he only praised Jesus through it all. 

His wife and four children were his pride and joy. John was a fun and loving husband and father, always planning weekend activities and family vacations; he especially enjoyed traveling to the Smoky Mountains. He was “Papa Doug” to his grand babies, and the fun uncle to his nieces and nephews.

To know him was to love him; his testimony and legacy will live on. We cannot wait to see him again one day, happy and healthy strolling over the streets of Heaven.

Friends, family and all who knew him are welcome to calling hours, Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. - noon with a service immediately following at Harmony Baptist Church, 1127 Southeast Ave. Tallmadge, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Harmony Baptist Church, 1127 Southeast Ave., Tallmadge OH 44278.

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