Ann Kaely Shaw

Ann Kaely Shaw, 57, of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on September 18, 2026.

Kaely was born May 21, 1969. What defined her were the people and animals she loved and protected. Her love of the natural world took her to Alaska, where she spent three years working in wolf conservation. Closer to home, her German Shepherds — Jack, Jazz and Max — each held a place in her heart. Ruby, a rescue, was the last, and Kaely mourned her deeply. Animals in need found in Kaely a loving friend and a fierce advocate.

Kaely was endlessly curious and never stopped learning, drawn most of all to the study of spirituality.

Her greatest joy came in 2009 with the birth of her son, Elijah Nunnery. From that day, Eli was the center of her world. They watched the Harry Potter movies together, again and again. Nothing mattered to her more than being his mother, and that love will stay with him for the rest of his life.

Kaely was tough, smart and notoriously stubborn. She was also tender with anyone and anything vulnerable. Her strength made her a fighter for those she loved; her tenderness made her notice who needed one. She leaves a legacy in the animals she protected and the lives she touched. Her greatest legacy is Eli.

In addition to Eli, Kaely is survived by her sister, Lee Sturma; her sister-in-law, Tammeline Shaw; her nephews, Paul and Calvin Shaw; her niece, Virginia Shaw; and many friends whose lives were better for knowing her. She was preceded in passing by her brother, Paul Francis Shaw, earlier this year.

A celebration of Kaely's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Woodstock Animal Rescue.