On March 15, 2025, the community mourned the loss of four respected individuals who each left behind strong legacies through their lives and service. The poignant occasion brought together family and friends for their respective memorials, set for March 22, 2025.
Isaac Lee Phillips Shumate, born on April 29, 1992, was remembered as a warrior who battled bravely against illness, passing away at the age of 32. His life was characterized by love for family, God, and country. A veteran who served as a Calvary Scout, Isaac was admired not just for his military service but also for his joyful spirit. He cherished his family, especially his wife Emily and their daughter Adeline Grace, born in 2019.
The funeral service for Isaac will be held at The Gathering Church on March 22, with military honors provided by VFW Blue Ridge Mountain post #1142 and the NC Honor Guard. His funeral is set to reflect his vibrant personality and unwavering faith as friends and family gather to celebrate his life.
Meanwhile, Ralph R. Rennie of Magnolia, who passed away at the age of 82 on the same day, is remembered for his deep roots within the community and long-standing service to family and friends. Born on November 12, 1942, Ralph dedicated 33 years to The Timken Company and was also noted for his active involvement as a Mason and community leader.
His widow, Sally, preceded him in death by six months. The family finds solace as they reflect on their time together, describing Ralph as always ready to lend support. His funeral service is scheduled for March 22 at noon, with friends invited to visit beforehand from 10 to 12 at Finefrock-Gordon Funeral Home.
Further, Darrell Dean Andrews, who lived to the age of 89, passed away and will be fondly remembered by his community. He was born on November 20, 1935, and enjoyed 69 years of marriage to his high school sweetheart, Beverly. Darrell was well-known for his humor, vibrant stories, and zest for life, leaving behind children and grandchildren who adored him.
A partnership with the Moorhead Christian Church meant Darrell was well-loved and known within local circles; his memorial service is scheduled for March 22. Family will have the chance to reflect on cherished memories from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by the private service.
Lastly, Pearl Virginia Lee of Sandston, who also passed away on March 15, is another cherished member of the community, remembered at the age of 86. Pearl was born on February 7, 1939, and captured the love of her family through her kind spirit.
Her funeral service will commence on March 22 at Rock Hill Baptist Church, followed by interment. The family hopes to honor Pearl's life through shared remembrances and gratitude for the time spent together.
All four obituaries reflect deep connections to family and the community, showcasing the love and impact these individuals made throughout their lives. They demonstrate how each life touched many others, reminding us to cherish those connections as we grieve and gather to celebrate the legacies they leave behind.
The collective remembrance of Isaac, Ralph, Darrell, and Pearl draws together their stories, encouraging all who knew them to find comfort and inspiration through the memories they shared. These services will not only serve as farewells but as celebrations of life, emphasizing love, laughter, and community as enduring legacies.