Honoring Patrick Shaw's Vibrant Legacy

Our dear friend Patrick Shaw recently passed away, and it’s incredibly difficult to put into words just how much he meant to all of us. Patrick touched so many lives with his warmth, humor, kindness, and unmistakable spark. He was a truly special soul—funny, vibrant, sassy, and full of life—and we are heartbroken by his loss.

To honor and celebrate the incredible person Patrick was, please join us for his first Celebration of Life on Wednesday, April 23 from 5–7 PM upstairs at Number Nine. While the venue is a bar and limited to adults, we know Patrick’s school community is planning meaningful ways for his students to remember him as well.

In addition, a group of his coworkers will be gathering at The Little Gay Pub in DC on Friday evening for another celebration. JR’s is also planning a possible remembrance night this coming Monday during their Showtunes night, one of Patrick’s absolute favorites. If you ever went with him, you know how much joy he found belting out the classics with friends.

Patrick’s family will also be honoring one of his final wishes by bringing him back home to Arkansas to be close to his loved ones. In true Patrick fashion, he wanted something meaningful and beautiful—he asked to be turned into a tree, a living tribute to the life he lived so fully.

This will be a place where friends and family can visit, reflect, and feel connected to him in their own way. His family will keep us updated on where his tree will be planted, so we can all have a place to go and remember him surrounded by the peace and nature he so deeply appreciated.

Many have asked how they can help, and in response, we’ve created this GoFundMe page to support funeral expenses, assist in finding a loving home for Patrick’s beloved dog (and child), Bertie, and cover any other needs that may arise during this difficult time. The page is simply a way for those who loved Patrick to give back in a meaningful way.

Any funds remaining after covering all expenses will be donated to a charity in Patrick’s honor. While we haven’t chosen the exact organization just yet, we’re committed to selecting something that reflects the values, passions, and heart of who Patrick was. We’ll be sure to keep everyone updated once that decision is made, so we can all feel a part of giving back in his name.

Patrick lived a bold and beautiful life—you can see it in the countless photos he shared and in the many one-on-one moments he had with each of us. He was a vibrant force, and we will miss him dearly.

Thank you for keeping his memory alive with your presence, your love, and your support. We hope to see you at one of his celebrations.