It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Shawn Robert Lastinger, after a long battle with cancer. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend, whose life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and unwavering kindness. Shawn was born in Ridley Park, a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Dekalb County, Georgia. From a young age, he showed a passion for sports, excelling in soccer, baseball, and football. However, it was basketball that truly captured his heart and showcased his exceptional talents.
Shawn's dedication to basketball led him to significant achievements in his high school years at Lakeside High School. He was honored to be named to the Georgia Basketball All State Team, leading his team to the state playoffs in his junior year and the state finals in his senior year. Known by opposition coaches as the "three point kid," Shawn's remarkable 43% success rate in three-point shooting, along with his quickness, ball-handling skills, and floor leadership, made him a standout player.
After high school, Shawn represented Georgia in the Boston Shootout Basketball Tournament at the historic Boston Garden. His performance on numerous select teams against highly recruited players earned him a full four-year basketball scholarship to Clemson University. Majoring in electrical engineering, Shawn continued to impress on the court, playing in iconic venues like the Dean Dome and Cameron Indoor Stadium, and participating in tournaments in California, Puerto Rico, and ultimately reaching the Sweet Sixteen round of March Madness. One of his cherished memories was being part of the Clemson team that clinched the regular season ACC Basketball Championship, for which Shawn was awarded the game ball signed by all his teammates and coaches.
Shawn's popularity and sportsmanship were always accompanied by his deep faith and love for the Lord. He used his platform to share his testimony, reading his Bible daily, and living as a witness to his faith. Tragically, Shawn's collegiate basketball career and the rights of passage of adulthood were cut short by the onset of mental illness. Despite this, he faced his challenges with courage and grace, never allowing his illness to overshadow his positive outlook on life.
Throughout his battle with mental illness, Shawn remained a beacon of positivity and resilience. His adversity did not define him; it revealed his true character. Shawn never complained about his circumstances, instead, he remained an uplifting spirit to everyone he encountered. His ability to maintain a positive attitude and keep going in the most difficult circumstances was truly inspiring.
Shawn also found joy in simple pleasures, such as fishing, where he once caught two ten-pound bass from his dad’s pond within a week’s time. His warm and caring nature touched the lives of many, and his legacy of kindness and strength will forever be remembered.
Rest in peace, dear Shawn. You have earned it. The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. You will always be remembered by your family and friends for the positive impact you made through your life. Your memory will continue to inspire us all.
Shawn is survived by his parents, James and Barbara Searles Lastinger of Tifton; one brother and sister-in-law, Jay and Anita Lastinger of Duluth; one sister and brother-in-law, Michelle and Jacobus Murray of George, South Africa; and four nieces, Tiffany Lastinger of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Ava Murray, Hannah Murray and Nell Murray, all of George, South Africa.
Shawn’s funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27, 2024, in the Memorial Chapel of Tifton's First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Wayne Roe and the Rev. John Hughes officiating. Shawn will be laid to rest at a later date. The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Memorial Chapel Social Hall of Tifton’s First Baptist Church, 404 Love Avenue, Tifton, GA. A reception will be held in the Memorial Chapel Social Hall of Tifton’s First Baptist Church immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial gifts to the National Institute of Mental Health Gift Fund, 6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 6229A, MSC9655, Bethesda, MD 20892-9655; or give online at www.nimh.nih.gov.