Evelyn L. Shaw, 88, affectionately known as “Abu,” died October 24, in the month of her favorite season, Autumn. She was born October 10, 1930, in Seymour, Conn. to Richard E. and Bertha Olson Luetters.

She loved to see the leaves change. Her colorful spirit is carried on in the lives of her children, Charles R. Shaw of Newtown, Christopher H. Shaw of Nederland, Colo., Susan M. Shaw of Harwich, Mass., and Kathleen S. Wallace of Atherton, Calif.; and her grandchildren, Christopher, Jack, Alec, Lila, Isabel, and Catherine. Her husband, Alexander D. Shaw of Chatham, Mass., and a much loved niece, also survive Mrs Shaw. She is predeceased by her brother, Richard Luetters, and sister, Lorna Joy.

Mrs Shaw was blessed with many dear friends, family, and beloved pets of whose lives she felt so grateful to be a part. She was surrounded by family and the loving community and staff of the Maplewood at Newtown residence where she lived.

Eyes sparkling, often accompanied by a wicked sense of humor, she was instantly recognizable, head to toe in yellow, purple, or denim, with a matching hat and shoes adorned with sparkling pins and her signature fish necklace, as though the day itself were an event.

She was passionate and creative in many areas of her life. Whether cooking for one or hosting Junior League events and bridge parties, she delighted in the unique: falafel or baklava, or even her purple mashed potatoes.

At one time, she owned The Cookery, a specialty store and cooking school in Woodbury. Her artwork, whether constructed with lint or beach glass — or perhaps her pencil sketches or beautiful hand-beaded and sea glass jewelry — was always made with love and given away on a moment’s notice as a token of her affection. She adored daisies and flower arranging and was a vibrant member and former president of the Pomperaug Valley garden club and Warwick Neck garden club in Warwick, R.I.

Opinionated and passionate, she was a warm, giving, and generous friend who delighted in making her daily rounds to LaBonne’s Market and favorite local shops in Woodbury to connect with the people she so enjoyed seeing. She could often be found sitting quietly outside, head tilted back to face the sunshine. In her view, to quote her beloved Louis Armstrong “What good is sitting alone in your room? Come hear the music play... life is a cabaret!”

Burial is private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pomeraug Valley Garden Club at pomperaugvalleygc.org.