The Family Support Council, a proud United Way Community Partner, is very grateful for the support the community provided when Covid-19 restrictions impacted our ability to fundraise in a public way.
We are so pleased to announce that we will be returning to our annual “Toast of the Town” event! This year will mark the 31st year that the Family Support Council celebrates an outstanding community member at the annual “Toast of the Town”. Each year, the agency honors a servant leader who impacts our community in positive ways. The Family Support Council is overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude to recognize this businessman and champion for Northwest Georgia, Mr. Bob Shaw. The dinner to honor Mr. Shaw will be held on August 26, 2021 at The Farm. Proceeds will go toward the work to eradicate the tragic consequences of child abuse and neglect in Northwest Georgia.
Robert Evans Shaw was born in Cartersville, Georgia on August 18, 1931 to Julius Clarence and Essie Evans Shaw. He and his family moved to Dalton where he attended Dalton High School and played varsity football and basketball. Healthy competition was always in his genetic makeup. After graduation he attended the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. He began his career in the flooring industry as a teenager driving a truck for his father at Star Dye Company and after his father’s death he retooled the company into Star Finishing in 1958 with his brother Bud.
Mr. Shaw was cofounder and Chief Executive Officer of Shaw Industries, Inc. for 48 years. Mr Shaw retired from Shaw Industries, a Berkshire Hathaway company, on September 1, 2006. A few years later Mr. Shaw established a new company, Engineered Floors, LLC and the first manufacturing plant began production in 2009. Today Engineered Floors operates ten facilities and employs 4830 associates. Mr. Shaw will turn 90 in August and is still going stronger than ever!
Mr. Shaw is not one to discuss his philanthropic endeavors other than to say, “We are very interested in Northwest Georgia and all things that are worthwhile.” Throughout the years Mr. Shaw has given graciously to local organizations and his commitment to excellence is seen throughout our community, but perhaps his most exceptional endeavor is the Anna Shaw Children’s Institute, which honors his late wife, Anna Sue Shaw. Above all, his greatest legacy is his deep love and commitment to our community where we live, work, raise our families, and enjoy life.
Mr. Shaw was married to Anna Sue for fifty-seven years. They have four grown children, eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Mr. Shaw married Dottie Boring on October 2, 2016 and they are active members of ChristChurch Presbyterian in Dalton, Georgia. They reside at The Farm surrounded by family.