Bryant "Heavy" Shaw

Bryant L. “Heavy” Shaw, 55, of Kankakee, passed away Friday, February 20, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born September 29, 1970, in Chicago, the son of Elizabeth Shaw and Jimmy Westbrook. Bryant was a devoted and faithful man who lived his life grounded in his favorite motto: “God. Family. Football.” Those three words were more than just a saying to him—they were the foundation of who he was and how he loved others. His faith guided him, his family meant everything to him, and his passion for sports brought him endless joy. He was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys, the Chicago Bears, and the Chicago Cubs. Beyond sports, Bryant found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed relaxing with his favorite television shows and took pride in cooking meals to share with those he loved. Above all, he was an incredible PawPaw to his grandchildren, a role he cherished deeply. Nothing brought him greater fulfillment than gathering with his family, sharing stories, laughter, and love. Bryant is survived by his children, Lyminda Shaw, Christopher (Sunny) Shaw, Aaron Smith, Deanya Shaw, Coryann Shaw, Sheyann (Kevin Beever) Shaw, Trevor Shaw, and Jersey Shaw; best friend & caregiver, Kimberly (Matthew) Alaniz; grandchildren, Ace, Noa, Julian, Jayce, Milani, Journie, Hazel, Isla, Owen, Zion, and Lincoln; sister, Nancy Shaw; and his “brother from another mother”, Jason (Marcy) Koenig. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Nichelle Shaw and Trevora “Troy” Shaw. Visitation will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, at Jensen Funeral Home, Kankakee, from 10am until the funeral service at 1pm. Burial will immediately follow at Kankakee Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family.