Rockingham Times

Ward 9 Alderman and New Hampshire State Rep. Barbara Cartier Shaw (D-Manchester), a long-time educator and public servant, has died at the age of 79.

Among those offering condolences was New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R). 

“Barbara Shaw was a force, cared deeply about her community of Manchester and the state of New Hampshire, was respected by everyone and served with distinction over her many years of service,” the governor tweeted Dec. 23. “She will be missed by all.” 

Rep. Barbara Shaw | Facebook/Barbara Shaw

Shaw spent nearly five decades in education but also served as Ward 9 alderman since 2010 and was in her 10th term as a New Hampshire State representative, having been first elected in 2000.

"Barbara Shaw was a dedicated public servant," NH House Clerk tweeted Dec. 23. "In her 11 terms in the House, she ushered through countless pieces of legislation that became law, served on numerous committees and commissions, and was one of the best committee clerks I've ever worked with. She will be missed."

Shaw served as a member of the Hillsborough County Executive Board from 2004-2018, according to her biography, which ended with the intention to “live life to the fullest.”

Shaw attended Plymouth State College, where she earned undergraduate and master's degrees in education.

Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig said Shaw understood what was best for her constituents. 

“Her kindness, dedication and genuine love for Manchester were apparent in everything she did,” Craig told Manchester Ink Link. "My deepest condolences go to Barbara’s family, her pride and joy, and all those she impacted throughout her life.”