Royal Shawn Weaver passed away on April 13, 2025.

Royal Shawn Weaver was born to Darwin and Vera Weaver in Des Moines, Iowa. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974 attending boot camp at Recruit Training Command San Diego, CA. Subsequent training to him to Groton, CT and Dam Neck, VA. He reported to his first submarine the USS Lafayette SSBN 616 (G) in 1975 where he qualified submarines. Following a short break in service he reported to the USS Sam Rayburn SSBN 635(B) in 1982. Royal then reported to Commander, Submarine Forces, Atlantic Fleet for shore duty scheduling Navy Technical Proficiency Inspections for Atlantic Fleet submarines. In 1988 he reported to the USS Francis Scott Key SSBN 657(B) where he served from August 1988 In 1992 he reported to USS Trepang as the Chief of the Boat serving until his assignment to the Strategic Weapons Facility Atlantic Kings Bay, GA serving as the Command Master Chief from May 1995 until his retirement from the United States Navy in August 1998 after twenty-three years of faithful and honorable service. Royal met the love of his life Gull in 1985 while stationed in Norfolk. They had a long-distance love affair as she was living and working in North Carolina at the time.

It wasn't long before Gull moved to Virginia where they truly fell in love and married in the Chapel at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, VA in 1987. Royal and Gull couldn't wait to start a family of their own and their girls Carson Jones (Steven) and Cera Matta (Gabe) meant the world to them. One of Royal's favorite roles was that of grandfather. Bobby Jones and Elias Matta were his pride and joy, and he always kept a supply of grapes in the refrigerator handy just in case.

Royal was predeceased in death by his Mom and Dad, Vera and Darwin.

In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, he is also survived by his brother Skip Weaver and sister Patricia Voll both of Des Moines, IA as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held on April 26, 2025, at 12:00 pm at The St. Marys Submarine Museum 102 St. Marys St W St. Marys, GA 31558

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The St. Marys Submarine Museum.

Allison Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.