David C. Shaw, devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and tireless advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, passed away on June 17, 2026, in Newtown, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on October 27, 1944, David was the son of the late Dorcas and Robert Shaw. He was raised in Broadalbin and Long Lake, New York. He attended Union College and earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics in 1966.

David began his career as an electrical engineer with United Aircraft Corporation before serving honorably in the United States Army. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Valentine, beginning a partnership that spanned more than 57 years.

Determined to dedicate his life to justice and public service, David earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1973. He practiced law for more than fifty years, becoming one of Connecticut’s most respected advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. He had the distinction of arguing cases before the Supreme Court on two separate occasions, prevailing both times.

Throughout his distinguished career, David helped advance inclusive education, community living, accessible transportation, and essential support services for thousands of individuals with disabilities. His work contributed to landmark legal victories that transformed opportunities and improved quality of life for countless families throughout Connecticut and beyond. He firmly believed that every person deserved dignity, opportunity, and a voice, and he devoted his career to making that belief a reality.

David embraced life with enthusiasm, kindness and humor. He enjoyed running, biking, tennis, platform tennis, pickleball, and golf. He was a devoted Yankees and UConn Huskies fan. Above all, he cherished time with his family and especially his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and pride.

David will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to justice, compassion for others, sharp intellect, perseverance, and deep devotion to family. His legacy lives on not only in those who loved him, but also in the thousands of individuals and families whose lives were forever improved through his advocacy.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Valentine Shaw; his daughters, Samantha Shaw and Lindsay Shaw Bruno; J. James Bruno II, MD; Brandon Andrews; and his five cherished grandchildren, Sydney, Raleigh, Jack, Reed, and Avery.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 29, at 10 am, at Newtown Methodist Church in Sandy Hook. A private graveside service will be held at Simsbury Cemetery in Simsbury. A Celebration of Life will be announced and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Arc Connecticut (thearcct.org) in honor of David’s lifelong dedication to advancing the rights and opportunities of individuals with disabilities.