Norma Sue Shumaker

Norma Sue Shumaker passed away surrounded by her family on 11-30-23 at the age of 90. Norma was born on 12-15-32 to Agnes Carter, and Marshall Carter. She was the oldest of three. She had a sister Barbara and brother Weldon. In her own words they were born “naked and poor, but we did not know it”. She was born in a shinnery in Anson, Texas. Her first memory of Christmas was her dad making hand puppets and putting on a show for them. They first came to AZ when she was 5, to work the cotton fields. Their migrant farm life took them to California, back to Texas, and then finally back to AZ when she was in the 8th grade. They moved to Ocotillo where her extended family was living and working on the farms. They eventually settled in Mesa, AZ where she went to high school and became a Mesa High Rabette in the marching band. She met the love of her life, John Shumaker in 1950. They were married June 14, 1951 after she graduated. She became an office manager at Arctic Storage and was fortunate enough to retire with John in their 50’s. They spent over 72 happy years together. They had two children, Carolyn and John who she loved dearly, even when they weren’t so lovable. She made numerous friends throughout her life that she cherished. She loved vacations in Alpine, Mexico, Hawaii, Bermuda, Panama, and Costa Rica to name a few. Vacations were always a family and friend affair, with lots of laughs. She also loved playing games with family and friends; and loved golf. She was a member of Ken McDonald Women’s Golf Association for many years, up until she was 85 and couldn’t play any longer. She lived a full, fun, and laugh filled life. She will be deeply missed, by John (husband), Carolyn (Tressa), John (Amy), grandkids Travis (Bailee), Casey Jo, Jacob, Weldon (brother) and her many many friends. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to your favorite charity, if you so choose. But most importantly she would want us all to remember all the fun we had, and have a drink in her honor.