SEARSPORT — Constance "Connie" M. (Lanphier) Shaw, 68 of Searsport passed away surrounded by family on June 9, 2023. She was born in Belfast on October 17, 1954, the daughter of Stanley and Virginia (Ward) Lanphier.

She was one of nine children: Kathleen, Donna, Gail, Lucy, Stanley Jr., Timothy, Karen, and Ricky. Connie graduated from Searsport District High School in 1973 and was a lifelong resident of Searsport.  

Connie was the kind of person who did not let anything stop her from having a good time, even the embarrassment of her husband or children. In recent years, you might have been lucky enough to spot her dressed as a “flapper” and dancing the Charleston at Tozier’s Market on Halloween or doing a boogie to the “Crocodile Rock” in the Searsport Elementary School pickup line. Connie was no stranger to the karaoke microphone – Over the Rainbow and Harper Valley PTA were two of her favorites to sing. Connie's family meant everything to her – she loved and deeply cared about every member of her family, of which there were many.  

In December 1976, Connie went on a blind date with her later husband, Donald “Don” Shaw. They would be married just a short time later, on April 15, 1977. Connie and Don’s relationship was certainly unique. During their 46 years of marriage, Connie would often be heard saying “I should have dated you longer” in response to Don and his antics. In turn, Don would ask her, “Who do you love?” to which she would jokingly reply “Telly Savalas”.  

Connie and Don went on to have three children together – Matthew, Michael, and Melissa. Connie had tragically lost an infant son, Jason, prior to their marriage, and creating a family was very important to her. Sadly, Matt passed away much before his time in March 2015. There was not a day that passed when Connie did not honor their memories in some way. 

In October 2008, Connie became a grandmother, or “Gia”, for the first time when her granddaughter Makayla Shaw was born. She was later blessed with two more grandchildren, Kylie Whitcomb, and Jacob Shaw, who were both born in August 2012. Connie greatly enjoyed being a grandmother and loved sharing photos and stories about her grandchildren. 

Connie is survived by her husband, Don; son Mike and his wife Heather; daughter Melissa and her fiancée Patrick; grandchildren: Makayla, Kylie, and Jacob; brothers: Stan, Timmy, and Ricky; and sisters Donna and Karen.  

She was predeceased by her two sons Jason and Matt; parents: Stanley and Virginia; mother-in-law, Irene; father-in-law, Carl; three sisters: Gail, Lucy, and Kathleen; and two sisters-in-law: Beverly and Barbara. 

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 5 - 7 p.m., at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, where a memorial service will follow on Thursday, June 22, at 11 a.m.
 
Contributions made in Connie’s memory, such as flowers, cards, and/or donations for her final expenses can be sent to: Shaw Family, 756 Loggin Rd., Frankfort, ME 04438  

Connie was an avid supporter of organ donation. Please consider honoring her memory by becoming an organ donor. 

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ripostafh.com