Carolyn L. Shaw, affectionately known as Vicki, was a remarkable individual whose life journey began in Springerville, Arizona. Born to Victor and Janet Harrison, she spent her formative years in Hurley, NM, before moving to Silver City. Carolyn excelled academically, attending Western New Mexico University, where she consistently earned honors and was recognized as a member of the National Honor Society throughout high school and maintained her spot on the Dean's list during college.

Her professional life was dedicated to helping others, as she served as a social worker in the Child Protective Services Division of the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department until her retirement in 1996. In 1968, she married Jeff Shaw and relocated to Las Cruces, continuing her impactful work as a Child Abuse Investigator. Together, Carolyn and Jeff embraced adventure, traveling across the Southwest, exploring New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Texas in their RV.

Their passion for hot air ballooning flourished when they participated in the National Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque in 1974, which led to many more balloon rallies. In 2008, Jeff earned his balloon pilot's license, and Carolyn proudly took on the role of crew chief. She co-owned three balloons and cherished every moment spent in the sky.

Carolyn is survived by her two sisters, Patricia Erickson and Linda Ross (Sam), as well as Mike and Diane Riska, Orbin and Janette Stone, and Jim and Kay Smith. A memorial gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later date. Her legacy of kindness, adventure, and dedication to service will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com