Regis Louden Shawkey

Regis Louden Shawkey, a loving, funny, and generous husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away in Sarasota, Florida, on December 3, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on December 28, 1947, in Franklin, Pennsylvania, Regis grew into a man known for his quick wit, big heart, and steadfast devotion to the people he loved. Above all, he will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and the loyalty he showed his family—qualities that shaped every season of his life and endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A graduate of Franklin High School and New Castle Business College, Regis’s life took a defining turn during his college years when he met the love of his life, Marie Rhodes. The two built a remarkable life together and were married for more than 56 years, a partnership marked by deep affection, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment.

A proud member of the Army Reserve, Regis carried a quiet sense of duty throughout his life. In Jamestown, Pennsylvania, he built a thriving business—Shawkey’s Marketplace, which he owned and operated for over three decades—leading with integrity, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to doing right by others. After retiring in 2012, he and Marie relocated to Sarasota, where they embraced a new chapter filled with sunshine, friendship, and family.

Away from work, Regis was a passionate enthusiast of model trains, cars, and airplanes, finding joy in the craftsmanship and motion they embodied. He was especially fond of Corvettes, a lifelong passion reflected in the fact that his first car—and his last—were both Corvettes. A devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, he rarely missed a game, cheering on his team with the same enthusiasm he brought to so many aspects of his life.

He loved to travel, relishing the roads and runways that broadened his horizons and brought him closer to friends and family. Regis delighted in teaching moments with his children, often saying, “Certain things you don’t learn in school; these are things that you learn from your dad.” In those everyday lessons—delivered with warmth and humor—his wisdom shone most clearly.

Regis is survived by his beloved wife, Marie (Rhodes) Shawkey; his daughter, Amy Russell, and her husband, Bob, of Meadville, Pennsylvania; and his son, Marcus Shawkey, of Chatham, Massachusetts. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Teresa and Charles Fridley, of Sarasota, and his brother and sister-in-law, J. Tyler and Jackie Shawkey. His faithful chihuahua, Winston, was a constant companion. He will be deeply missed by extended family, lifelong friends, colleagues, and the many people whose lives were brightened by his ready smile and generous spirit.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 5, in the chapel at Church of the Palms in Sarasota, Florida, where loved ones will gather to celebrate a life lived with purpose and heart. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st St., #800, Miami, FL 33131.

As those who loved him continue to share stories and laughter in his honor, may they find comfort in the enduring legacy Regis leaves behind—his unwavering love for his family and the kindness he showed to everyone he met.