STATEMENT FROM JACKSON-SHAW REGARDING THE PASSING
OF FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN LEWIS W. SHAW, II
The North Texas commercial real estate community has lost a true pioneer, visionary and gentleman. Jackson-Shaw Founder and Chairman Lewis W. Shaw, II, age 82, passed away in Dallas on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, following a brief illness. Funeral services will be on Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m. at Sparkman Hillcrest.
“Lewis’ passing deeply saddens us. Our heartfelt sympathies go to his family and friends in this difficult time. He was more than a leader – he was a mentor, a friend and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His handshake was firm, his word was golden and his heart was always open,” said Jackson-Shaw President and Chief Executive Officer Michele Wheeler.
A graduate of Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, Lewis earned his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts in 1966. He served seven years in the U.S. Air Force before joining IBM in Dallas. In 1974, he became a construction manager and leasing agent at J.C. Jackson Company. Following the passing of Mr. Jackson, Lewis acquired the company and transformed it from a small local operation into a recognized leader in build-to-suit and speculative development.
Today, Jackson-Shaw is a premier national real estate development firm, blending entrepreneurial vision with practical expertise. Under Lewis’ leadership, the company has successfully developed more than 63 million square feet of industrial and hospitality projects nationwide.
Beyond Jackson-Shaw, Lewis co-founded American General Hospitality, Inc. in 1980, which became a publicly traded REIT in 1996 and later merged with Meristar REIT and Interstate Hotels & Resorts. His passion for hospitality extended to recent developments and investments in Las Vegas, Phoenix and Fort Worth.
In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Lewis was inducted into the North Texas Commercial Association of Realtors (NTCAR) Hall of Fame in 2003. He also served on the Wittenberg University Board of Directors and remained actively involved in numerous civic and national organizations. A dedicated aviator, Lewis had a lifelong passion for flying and traveled extensively in his own aircraft.
Fly high, Lewis W. Shaw, II.
For more information, visit JacksonShaw.com.
LEWIS W. SHAW, II HEADSHOT
CONTACT
Randy E. Pruett
214.505.1685 Mobile