Carolyn Mae Shumate, age 73, passed away at home in Tumwater, Washington on April 17, 2018. She was born November 28, 1944 in Spokane to Chester and Marie (Hopkins) McCartney. She met John Shumate on August 13, 1965 at the USO in Spokane. They married on September 1, 1966 at Fairchild AFB.
Carolyn was an extraordinary woman who dedicated her life to teaching, earning her BA from Eastern Washington University and her MAT, with a special education endorsement, from Whitworth. Her kind and gentle soul was a perfect match for teaching and supporting students who needed extra help. She taught or subbed in schools in Spokane, Bremerton, Grand Coulee, Tacoma and in Montana. She created a culture of learning wherever she went. She loved to listen to children read, particularly her grandchildren.
Carolyn enjoyed gardening (especially the 150+ dahlias that are planted annually in the backyard), camping, fishing, manicures, watching hummingbirds at the feeder set up near her favorite chair, and spending time with her family. She was a member of the Sacagawea Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Carolyn was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. We are all honored to be touched by her. We are all saddened by her passing and we know God will take care of her. Carolyn is survived by her husband of 51 years, John; daughter Erin (Tim) Bledsoe; son Todd; grandchildren Caleb and Elisabeth Bledsoe; sister Darlene (Russell) Root, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Visitation will be at Hazen & Jaeger Valley Funeral Home, 1306 N. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, WA Tues., April 24 from 4 – 7 pm. The Graveside Service is at Pines Cemetery, 1402 S. Pines Rd., Wed. April 25 at 2:30 pm.
