Donald K. Shumaker

Donald Keith Shumaker of Winston County, MS passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025 at the age of 86. He was born in the Hinze Community on October 11, 1939 to Addie Inez Burchfield Shumaker and Grover Houston Shumaker. He was a member of the last graduating Class (1957) of Lobutcha High School. He attended East Central CC and graduated from Mississippi State University with a Forestry degree. After working briefly with the Mississippi Forestry Commission in Grenada, MS, he joined the U.S. Forest Service. He took his wife, Dale Claire Shumaker, and young son, Tim, to their first assignment in northeast California. A daughter, Kimberly, was born there. Together, the family explored the National Forests over the next 34 years in postings in Canby, CA; Whitley City, KY; Laurel, MS; Forest, MS; and finally in Montgomery, AL. Throughout his career, he organized and participated in numerous western wildfire assignments for the Forest Service. He retired in 1995.

Dale and he then relocated to their family land in the Lobutcha Creek Community of Winston County. They quickly assimilated into their community by serving their church, Rural Hill Methodist Church. Don faithfully participated in the management of the church cemetery and property. After the closing of the church, they enjoyed the fellowship of Center Ridge Church and cherished the support afforded to them by that congregation. He was a member of the Louisville Lions Club for many years. He remained active in Forestry through his farm and the Mississippi and Winston County Forestry Associations. He was honored to have been named Tree Farmer of the Year.

Don was most happy outdoors and with the company of his family. He enjoyed farming, gardening, grilling, and quail hunting. He trained many bird dogs and always had a loyal pet dog by his side. He was known as a talented and meticulous handyman and woodworker. He always had a project going which resulted in gifts of birdhouses, adirondack chairs and other useful treasures.. He was an avid reader of historical novels and enjoyed televised sports. He was passionate about serving and spending time with his family. He played an active role in the lives of his children and grandchildren and kept in touch with his nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his siblings: Jaunice Watson, Juanita Jennings, Prentiss Shumaker, Douglas Shumaker, and Dwight Shumaker.

He is survived by his wife Dale C. Shumaker; son Timothy Shumaker, MD (Grace) of Flowood, MS; daughter Kimberly Lott (Toby) of Columbus, MS. Grandchildren include: Garret Shumaker (Kristen) of Madison, MS; Carrie Wynn (Chase) of Jackson, MS; Keith Shumaker (Lauren) of Northport, AL; Morgan Moultrie(Garrick) of Birmingham, AL; Cade Lott (Rachel) of Olive Branch, MS. He is most proud of his 9 great grandchildren and was excitedly anticipating the expected arrival of 2 more this spring.

Pallbearers will be Garret Shumaker, Keith Shumaker, Cade Lott, Garrick Moultrie, Chase Wynn, and Reggie Shumaker. Honorary Pallbearers will be Charles Miller, Travis Thiel, Harry Tabor, Milton Roach, Danny Mills, and Wade Mills.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Don’s extended family, attentive neighbors, and special caregivers (Joyce & Willie) who were there for them during this difficult time. Special thanks are also extended to CenterWell Home Care (Mitzi) and Gentiva Hospice (Abby, Jerri, & Deon).

Arrangements are under the direction of Porter Funeral Home, Louisville. Services will be at the funeral home on Monday November 3, 2025 with visitation at 1pm and funeral at 2pm. Rev. Charles Bond and Rev. Ricky Bane will be officiating.  Burial will follow at Rural Hill Methodist Church Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to Rural Hill Cemetery Fund, 675 Sturgis Road, Louisville, MS 39339.