Russell Shaw, a prominent Catholic writer and journalist, died on Jan. 6 at the age of 90, Catholic News Agency reported. He spent decades writing for the U.S. bishops, serving in communication and public affairs roles, and coordinating media for papal visits and synods.
Born May 19, 1935, in Washington, D.C., he attended Gonzaga High School and Georgetown University, where he earned a master’s degree in English literature. He wrote for the Catholic Standard and the National Catholic Welfare Conference News Service, eventually becoming director of the National Catholic Office for Information at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Shaw authored more than 20 books on ethics and moral theology and contributed to the New Catholic Encyclopedia. Later, he contributed columns for Catholic News Agency and the National Catholic Register, influencing generations of Catholic journalists.
Colleagues described Shaw as a mentor and a “wise man.”
Catholic writer Kathryn Jean Lopez said he loved God, his family, and the Church. She added that he possessed the gift of working for Church institutions while remaining free in Christ. Mike Aquilina praised him as a “pundit, journalist, novelist, and virtuoso of friendship.” Shaw’s wife, Carmen, passed away before him. He is survived by five children and numerous grandchildren. Lopez said his life provides Catholics in media “a great example and legacy to learn from,” urging others to follow his path of faith and holiness.