The legacy of Billye Proctor Shaw

Billye's devotion to family, to hard work, and to community defines her as an outstanding woman, leader, and mentor.

Billye Proctor Shaw, 91, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026, in Abilene, Texas.

Abilene and Texas benefited through her business and volunteer efforts for many years. Her heart and love for people fueled her passion for service and ultimately guided her involvement in organizations that made Abilene and the state of Texas a better place for her citizens to live and thrive. 

Billye served on or chaired numerous nonprofit boards and civic and state organizations. From 2003-2008, Billye served on the Community Foundation of Abilene's Board of Trustees. 

"Billye's legacy lives on through her family, her service, and the community she helped shape,” said CFA President/CEO Katie Alford. "She impacted innumerable causes during her life, and through the grants that will continue to be made from her endowment fund for years to come."

She was the giving, caring community volunteer who tirelessly worked for the betterment of our community at all levels — healthcare, human-services, and cultural enrichment.

Her hobbies included cooking, entertaining, and painting in oils. Her family would expand that list to include legend, fashion diva, leader, servant, and a cherished friend to many. But Billye believed her greatest accomplishment was her family.

Memorials may be given to the charity of your choice or to the newly-established Billye Proctor Shaw Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation of Abilene, in the earnest hope that Billye’s legacy of leading and supporting nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of Abilenians can continue for many years to come.