MEDWAY: Shawna G. Midkiff

Shawna G. Midkiff, 64, of Medway died peacefully September 30 at her home.

She was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up in New Port Richey, Florida.

Shawna is survived by her daughter, Paula Locke; her grandchildren, Zachary and Ethan; her significant other, Jeff Currul; and her siblings, Steven Midkiff, Kelly Midkiff, Shane Midkiff, Dana Midkiff, and Paige Wellman (Midkiff). She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who were part of her life and family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Inez “Gaye” Goff (Lathey) and Thomas Neal Midkiff, and her brother, Timothy Midkiff.

Who Shawna Was

Shawna was the life of the party. She loved being surrounded by people, and more than anything, she wanted the people around her to be happy. She loved making people laugh and knew how to bring fun and laughter wherever she went.

One of those memories still makes me laugh when I think about it. Shawna would take a pen cap, turn it sideways between her teeth, and try to talk. You couldn't understand a word she was saying—but somehow, you knew exactly what she was trying to tell you. She would be drooling and practically choking while trying to keep talking, which only made everyone laugh harder. Our dad would laugh so hard at her that he would literally gasp for air. With both dad and Shawna now gone, the memory of the two of them laughing together is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.

Shawna loved country music, football, NASCAR, and good food. And anyone who knew Shawna knew about her beautiful hair. She was incredibly proud of it—and for good reason. It was full, beautifully white, and very much a part of who she was.

But behind the woman who could make a room laugh was also someone you could turn to when you needed her.

Shawna was the person I went to when I needed advice or simply needed someone to listen. She wouldn't interrupt or rush to tell me what she thought. She would listen and hear everything I had to say before she spoke. She was someone you could talk to, someone you could trust, and someone you knew was truly listening.

During the final months of Shawna's life, Jeff remained by her side. He helped her through the difficult appointments and cared for her when she became bedridden and could no longer care for herself. His love, support, and care for her during those difficult days meant more than words can adequately express.

To me, Shawna wasn't simply my sister. She was my big sister. She was the person I went to when I needed advice. She listened to me, she heard me, and she loved deeply.

If I could tell someone who never had the opportunity to meet my sister just one thing about her, it would be this:

Shawna loved just as hard as we loved her.

She will be deeply missed, but the laughter, advice, love, and memories she gave us will always be a part of the people who loved her.

Arrangements are private and under the care of the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, Medway (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).