Wallace Layne Shumaker

Wallace Layne Shumaker

Wallace Shumaker Obituary

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Aug. 8, 2005.
Wallace Layne Shumaker, 43, of Buckingham County, was killed in an automobile accident on Saturday, August 6, 2005. He is survived by his parents, William T. and Ethelene Reynolds Shumaker of Dillwyn; his sister, Laura Spittle and her husband, David of Amelia, Va.; a brother, William W. and his wife, Michelle Shumaker of Dillwyn; and one niece, Lauren Raye Spittle of Amelia, Va. Wallace was a volunteer that had spent much of his time serving others. He was an employee of Kyanite Mining Corporation for approximately 25 years, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Coucil (formerly Piedmont Planning Commission), and currently served as president of the Buckingham County-Wide Volunteer Rescue Squad. He also served as 2nd Lieutenant on the Buckingham County Volunteer Fire Department Dillwyn Unit. Wallace was a friend who will be greatly missed. He recently returned fo Honduras on one of his medical mission trips to help others in other countries. Visitation will be held Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at Dunkum Funeral Home in Dillwyn. Services will be held Wednesday, 2 p.m. at the Dunkum Funeral Home, with burial at St. Andrews Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Dillwyn Fire Department or the Buckingham County Rescue Squad.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Wallace Shumaker's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 20, 2006

Someone posted to the memorial.

February 23, 2006

LISA TAYLOR-JONES posted to the memorial.

August 22, 2005

Lillie Powell posted to the memorial.

March 20, 2006

LISA TAYLOR-JONES

February 23, 2006

WOW, ITS BEEN A LITTLE OVER SIX MONTHS SINCE YOU LEFT US. I STILL LOOK FOR YOU TO COME THRU THE DOOR AT THE SQUAD BLDG. LAUGHING ABOUT SOME PRACTICAL JOKE YOU PLAYED ON SOMEONE. ITS ALOT QUIETER SINCE YOU LEFT US. ITS A LOT SADDER. I CARRY YOUR PICTURE WITH ME, IN MY CAR, IN MY TRUCK AT WORK...ITS SOMEWHERE SO THAT WHEN IM ALONE AND I'M FRAZZELED TO NO END, I CAN LOOK UP AT THOSE BIG BLUE EYES AND THAT SMILE AND I CAN HEAR YOU SAY...GETA GRIP!!! ITS NO BIG DEAL...YOU STILL BRING A SMILE TO MY HEART AND YOU STILL FIND A WAY TO BRIGHTEN MY DAY AND FOR THAT I THANK YOU....YOU ARE SOOOO MISSED.

Lillie Powell

August 22, 2005

Wallace,

I will never forget when you told me that "holding a patient's hand and reassuring them did more good than all the medication that you could give". That made me feel like I was really helping the patient.You made me feel good about myself.Thank you for all the things you taught me. You will be with each of us on every call we run,as we use the things you taught us. Good-bye until we meet again.

Nicole Jamerson

August 22, 2005

"I shall pass through this world but once. Any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being. Let me do it now for I shall not pass this way again."



I've known Wallace since I was a child. He was in my Uncle's wedding and use to stay over at my grandmothers all the time. I will always remember the tale of when he shot the door off of his truck(it was an accident). The most memerable are the hunting trips he use to take.

I will never forget the many nights spent in the back of the ambulance on calls. Each time I would learn something new. Even if he made you mad you couldn't stay mad at him. Because he was either right, or he just wanted to get you rattled.

I will always cherish the times that I spent with him and the knowledge that I received.

Me and Donald(aka. George) will forever miss him.

Thank you Wallace for all that you done and may others follow in your footsteps and be as great a man that you were.

H.V. Ellis

August 19, 2005

You will live in our hearts forever. Vaya con dios, my friend.

Debra Branch

August 16, 2005

Walace was a very good friend to my son, Chris,and daughter Amber. He was not only a loyal friend but a mentor and role model to younger people in this community who encouraged them to put their time and efforts into something very worthwhile instead of activities that would not be positive for their lives. I would just like to say thank you Wallace for saving lives..those that were in need of physical help, but also those who will probably make decisions to be an asset to the community now because of your mentoring.

Valerie Van Witzenburg

August 13, 2005

To the family & friends of Wallace,

Buckingham will never be the same now that Wallace has gone home. Each of us needs to remember the example he set & strive to leave as noble a legacy. Thank you Wallace!

Jennifer Shumaker

August 13, 2005

The devastating loss of such a friend has left so many of us lost and heartbroken. With so many cries of sorrow I'm not sure Wallace ever knew just how many of us loved him. Knowing him for over 14 years, I'm not sure he ever took the time to see what a difference he made. He was too busy making the differences by saving lives, lending all of us a helping hand, cracking jokes and just trying to keep all of us going. I'll never forget you my friend and I know that you would want us all to pick up our gear and march on and we will, but the shoes you wore will never be filled by one but by pulling together I hope we will make you proud. Thank you for your friendship and your smile. You will be greatly missed.



Buckingham Rescue Squad - Unit 17

LISA TAYLOR-JONES

August 13, 2005

WALLACE WAS A DEAR, DEAR FRIEND WHO ENCOURAGED ME TO ENTER THE EMS FIELD. WHENEVER I WOULD DOUBT MYSELF HE WOULD TELL ME, "LISA, DOING SOMETHING, NO MATTER HOW SMALL IS BETTER THAN DOING NOTHING AT ALL". I BELEIVE THAT IS HOW WALLACE LIVED HIS LIFE HE WANTED TO TOUCH US ALL IN SOME SMALL WAY. LITTLE DID HE REALIZE HOW GREATLY HIS TOUCH REACHED US. I STILL FIND MYSELF REACHING FOR THE PHONE TO CALL HIM. HIS FAMOUS LAST WORDS TO ME WERE "CALL ME, IF YOU NEED ME I'LL BE HERE". I KNOW THAT WALLACE WILL FOREVER RIDE WITH ME ON MY CALLS AND WHEN I QUESTION MYSELF, HE'LL BE THERE TO GUIDE ME IN MY HEART AND HELP ME ALL THE WAY. THANK YOU WALLACE FOR THE HONOR AND THE PRIVLEGE, REST ON MY SWEET PRINCE. LUV ALWAYS LISA

Kathy Grigg

August 13, 2005

To Wallace's Family and Friends,

I feel truly blest to have known Wallace and to be able to call him friend. The one time I had to travel in the Rescue Squad he was the EMT who was with me, and he was patient, kind, thoughtful and knew how to make you laugh and take your mind off of your problems. He was a Fas Mart Greeter in the early morning hours, too. Buckingham County was blest to have such a wonderful man dedicated to helping our county. He will be truly missed. There is no one who can take your place. God has taken his angel home to help him now. May God bless each of you and remember his legacy lives on thru each one of you, as friends and as family.

Rebekah Seay

August 12, 2005

As the greatest EMT I have ever known, I pay tribute to you for all of the knowlege I now possess. Whenever I was with you, I was constantly learning something, whether it was medical related, or a life lesson. Your dedication to the community is something which will never be forgotten. I will always save the last dance for you Wallace- I love you.

Patty Slough

August 11, 2005

Dear Laura,

I was saddened to hear of your great loss. May you find strength in this difficult time. I know you find strength in knowing what a fine man your brother was and how many people his life touched.

Patty Slough

Melody Sperling

August 11, 2005

To the most dedicated EMS provider I have ever known. Thank you for your training and commitment to this community. Your contribution will never be forgotten.

Christine Lightner

August 11, 2005

"True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others, at whatever cost."



I found this quote and it is to me, a perfect description of Wallace's life. I was one of the lucky one's that he saved and I am here today only by the grace of God and Wallace's hand.



I will continue to pray for all of his family and friends, I join all of you in mourning the loss of a great man.

Jennifer Dunkum

August 11, 2005

Wallace was a great person who was aways there when needed. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Everyone will miss his laughter and crazy sense of humor.

Donna Davis

August 11, 2005

Wallace,

You are one of the finest people I have ever known. Your friendship will be greatly missed.

Dottie, Pat and CJ Shumaker

August 11, 2005

To the family of Wallace, our prayers are with you. The community has suffered a great loss and Wallace will forever be missed. We thank him for his dedication to this community, to his family and mostly to God. His mission trips definitely showed his love for God and his fellow man. Gain strength from God knowing that Wallace is with Him.

Kelly Moore

August 11, 2005

There are no words that can convey what a GREAT man Wallace was. He was my best friend, mentor, teacher, confidant, and so much more.

Wallace, help me be the EMS provider you always knew I could be. There will always be a special place in my heart for you. I love you so much and know that one day we will meet again at the rescue squad in the sky.

Barbara Robinson

August 11, 2005

Laura,

I am so sorry about the loss of your brother. I can tell by reading the other entries that he was quite a special person.

Patrick Watson

August 11, 2005

Wallace was a great man. Ever since I got involved in EMS Wallace was always there with his helpful hints and direction. He treated me like a son. It didn't matter how long he had been up, how much sleep he had missed, he was always be at the other end of the phone or in person listening to you. When things got rough he was always there to crack a joke and cheer you up. I as well as many others will truly miss one of the greatest men that ever walked this earth.

Glen Moore

August 10, 2005

Wallace,



You are a true friend to all of us in Buckingham County Fire/EMS. You will be greatly missed. You have touched all of our hearts in your own special way, and none of us will ever forget that. You have left very big shoes for us to fill. Although that will be very difficult, we will continue to do our best in carrying on the tradition of service and dedication that you have instilled in all of us. Watch out for us from up there, because we still need you and always will.



"May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of His hand."



Until we meet again my friend, May God Bless and Rest in Peace.



Glen Moore

Dillwyn Fire Department

Jill Witt

August 10, 2005

Wallace was truly an inspiration to many. It is very rare to find someone so caring and giving so much of themselves to others. Wallace will truly be missed by all his friends and family. Thank you Wallace for all that you did for our community we will never forget you.

Bill Dawson

August 10, 2005

Wallace was a very special person and will be missed greatly. I had the privilege of being his roommate on two of the trips to Honduras. It was a pleasure to know him and see him serve others. I will be praying for your family.

Stephanie Anderson

August 10, 2005

If ever there were a man that dedicated his life to his community it would be Wallace. Thank you for all you did. You will be missed.

Joan Staton

August 10, 2005

May the memory of Wallace and all the good things he did for our county live on in our hearts each and every day. He truly was a special member of our community and will be greatly missed by everyone.

Amy Ricotta

August 10, 2005

Willie,



No words can express how very sorry I am to hear of your loss. I know that there is a special connection between you and your brother, and one that will only heal with time. May God comfort and carry you through this time of loss. Please let us know if there is "anything" that we can do for you or your family.

Lee & Lorna Coleman

August 10, 2005

Thank you for having been such a great friend to our family in Dillwyn and Buckingham. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and know he will be greatly missed. It was a pleasure to have meant him.

Mina Gray

August 10, 2005

He will be greatly missed and was a true friend. Our throughts and prayers are with his family.

CHARLOTTE AYERS

August 10, 2005

EXTENDING SYMPATHY TO THE SHUMAKER FAMILY. I WAS TRULY SORRY TO HEAR OF HIS HOMEGOING. THE BUCKINGHAM COUNTY CLASS OF 1980 HAS ONCE AGAIN LOST ONE OF IT'S FINEST. WALLACE WAS AN OUTSTANDING PERSON AND HE TOUCHED MANY LIVES THROUGH HIS DEDICATION TO THE BUCKINGHAM COUNTY RESCUE SQUAD. REST IN PEACE WALLACE.

Davis Phaup

August 10, 2005

Very few people in this world are as dedicated to helping others as was Wallace. I am fortunate to have known him, and will miss him greatly.

Liz Steger

August 10, 2005

Wallace, you have left a void in all our hearts. Your Fire and Rescue Family, Your immediate Family and Your Kyanite Family! We will lovingly always remember you as our "Wally Baby"

Our Love Thoughts and Prayers are with all the Families.

KIMBERLY TAYLOR

August 10, 2005

I feel blessed to have known Wallace and love him. Living with him for 2

years showed me the kind loving person

he was. He had a side to him that I am

so glad that I got live with. Many nights I have seen rescue calls go off

and Wallace was tired or did not feel

good, but he always pushed himself to keep going help whoever was in need. The times we shared and the places we went I will forever cherish. This community was blessed to have him and I will forever be blessed to have known him personally. Wallace was so devoted to his family and I am sure he will

continue to watch over them in heaven. Everything I saw Wallace do

was not for the glory but came from

the heart. I will forever miss you and always hold a special place for you in my heart.

Sharon Belvin

August 10, 2005

It was very sad to hear of a fallen rescue family member. I am sorry for your loss.



Greene County Rescue

LeAnne Harris

August 9, 2005

Wallace, I will miss very much. I will always remember you everyday when I look at my MOLE on my arm that you gave me when I was really sick and you had to put a needle in my arm. I didn't want any body else to put any more needles in me but you cause you did not hurt me. I will miss you Wallace. Hope no one will mess my picture up at the squad building that i drew i drew it for you. LeAnne

Sharon Black-Snoddy

August 9, 2005

Whenever I had the opportunity to work along with Wallace, he always taught me something as an EMS provider. His thoughfulness, patience and encourgement were the most valueable. My sympathies go out to his family and to his rescue "family" as well.

Gralline Garrett (Puppy)

August 9, 2005

Wallace, I knew you for 7years as a squad member and also as a friend. Friday night High School football will never be the same again without you there by my side. NO call I will answer will be the same. I don't have you to run the most calls Race for the year.Wallace I will miss you but, I know that your watching from up above. Be with God and Rest in Peace. MISS YOU MY GOOD FRIEND

Mike Green

August 9, 2005

It was with great sorrow that I had heard of Wallace's passing. He was a friend that I learned alot from. His quiet ways and cheerful attitude will be missed by all who knew Wallace. God bless and keep.

James and Lisa Napier

August 9, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of Wallace and the Buckinghm EMS/Fire community. The EMS family has lost a true friend.



James and Lisa Napier

Scottsville Volunteer Rescue Sqaud

Amber Simpson

August 9, 2005

Wallace was a GREAT man if u didnt no him u missed out on a great friendship. I've known wallace for a while and he worked with my Dad at Kynite my dad enjoyed working with wallace for 13 years and will greatly miss not seeing him at Kyanite everyday. I will always Remeber the SMILE i always got from Wallace when i seen him. U will be greatly missed but NEVER forgotton. Dillwyn Rescue will not be the same(BUCKINGHAM WILL NOT BE THE SAME) with great love, Amber and Dennis

Dale Ragland

August 9, 2005

Our deepest sympathy to Wallace's family. What a geat loss to you and the County.

Cyndi Johnson

August 9, 2005

On behalf of the Scottsville Rescue Squad, please accept our sincere condolences in the loss of Wallace. We all share your grief. Wallace was a great guy and will be missed by all who knew him.

James and Marie Johnson

August 9, 2005

Wallace was a true friend to James and I. He will be missed greatly.

Rachel Mays

August 9, 2005

Family and Friends of Wallace Shumaker: My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I know you don't recognize my name, but I am Billy Wilmoth's mother and I have heard Wallace's name a lot. They were friends since school days. Billy has lots of good memories and will always treasure the times that they shared. From all that I hear, God has a special angel now. My Sympathy and thoughts.

SYLVIA DUNKUM

August 9, 2005

Wallace touched the lives of many people. There is a void this County will never be able to fill.

I'm going to miss all the joking you use to do with me at Gilliam Motors. May God Bless his family and friends.

AMY WOODSON

August 9, 2005

MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE BUCKINGHAM COUNTY RESQUE SQUAD.

Jessica Parker

August 9, 2005

Willie,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family on the lost of your brother. If there is anything that we can do for your please let us know.

Jessica, Ashley, Aubra, and Chad Parker

Debbie Crowder McGann

August 9, 2005

Willie,

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

Colleen Boyd

August 9, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Wallace. I hope that the continued prayers and support of so many will bring you peace and comfort in your time of sorrow.

Sammy Davis

August 8, 2005

My life has been blessed just by knowing you. You were truly an inspiration to those of us that had the chance to run a squad call with you. My prayers go out to your family and may we continue on as you would have wanted.

Steven Dyer

August 8, 2005

As a member of the EMS family. It is with a sadden heart to hear of Wallace's death. May God bless you all.

judi allen

August 8, 2005

you were one of the most dedicated people i know. you went on calls no matter where,when,what kind.knowing you only had a few hours before going to work, you still would go. you also tried to give as much time to the fire department as possible. i always wondered how you could get more out of 24hrs. than the rest of us. it seemed as though you had more than 24hrs in a day to do the things you did. you will be missed by everyone.I can see you now jumping from cloud to cloud with a stephoscope asking eveyone are you ok? let me check you to make sure. your one of gods medical angels now. what an honor. be seeing you there one day soon.

portland harris

August 8, 2005

Wallace was a great friend to all. It is such a loss to all of us that you are gone from all. You don't know how greatly appreciated you were in all of the EMS providers in the community. I learned alot from you through the years when I was on the squad and in my job that I do everyday. You were always there when I needed assistant. I will miss you very much. May God Look after you.

Garland & Jackie Nuckols [Louisa Rescue]

August 8, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with both his families - the loved ones at home and those at the squad house.

Mona Snow

August 8, 2005

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. All the area EMS agencies share the loss of a fine man and EMT.

Pegasus Flight Operations

William Wood

August 8, 2005

Western Albemarle Rescue wishes to express our deepest sympathy to Wallace's family and Buckingham Rescue.

Joanna Shaw Rose

August 8, 2005

My prayers are with you. Wallace was an amazing guy that loved the Lord and served his community greatly. I know he will be greatly missed. From the Shaw family our deepest condolences and our prayers are with you in this difficult time.

Bob Townsend,1st Lt,GCRS

August 8, 2005

Rest in peace my friend,

Your shift is at an end

When the cry was for help,

you answered the call.

Now go with God,

and watch over us all

Faye Shumaker

August 8, 2005

Everyone who knew Wallace knew the genuine meaning of love and unselfishness. He made this world a better place and his death has left a void that will not be filled.

Herb Reynolds

August 8, 2005

Willie,

I didn't know your brother, but, being your twin, I know he was a great guy and will be missed. My condolences to you and your family. May God bless you all.

Michael Berg

August 8, 2005

It is with sadden heart that we learned of Wallace's death. The Office of EMS extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends for which Wallace was a major part.

Robin Taylor

August 8, 2005

I am a member of the Ladies Auxiliary for the Dillwyn Fire Department and am fortunate to have worked with Wallace on fund-raising events for the past 5 years. His devotion to helping others should be an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed and sadly mourned not only by his family, but his extended family, his friends, and his community.

Brian Wilson

August 8, 2005

My prayers go out to the family and to all EMS providers. We all have lost a faly member in Wallace.

Shawn Tevendale

August 8, 2005

Wallace was a great inspiration to many local EMS providers and he will be truly missed in our community. Words can not express my sorrow on hearing of his passing

To his Family, may you find strength through these hard times.

Gary Wyatt

August 8, 2005

Wallace was instrumental in many EMS providers advancement. His expertise was highly regarded by all who knew him. His warm smile has touch many lifes. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family.

Maria Ragland

August 8, 2005

I am so sorry for your lost. Wallace taught my daughter who is in Girl Scouts in First Aid. He will be missed.

Christopher Hucks

August 8, 2005

There are no words that can describe the type of friend that Wallace was to me. He was the closest person I had to being a father. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Sandra Stephens

August 8, 2005

Willie,

So sorry to learn about this terrible tragedy. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sandra/Region 3 DOF

Ed Stoots

August 8, 2005

Sorry to hear about the death of your brother Willie. As fine a person as you are I know that Wallace was equally and will be missed. May god comfort you and your family.

Beth Spencer-Coltrane

August 8, 2005

Lives of great men all remind us,

We can make our lives sublime,

And departing, leave behind us

Footprints in the sand of time.

Longfellow

His kindness and generosity of spirit will forever be missed. Rest now and reap your reward sweet man, I love you always!

Christal Parker

August 8, 2005

Wallace always had a smile on his face that made you smile. He always seemed to care for everyone else before himself. This was a great loss, but I know he has to be in a good place. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Dianne & Tex Trammell

August 8, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Patty Perutelli

August 8, 2005

I believe that once you met Wallace he touched your life. His wit , smile, charm and knowledge was incredible. He will be greatly missed by all. May God Bless!!!

Amber Hucks

August 8, 2005

Wallace was a great friend whom I dearly loved. He will be missed by all. May god bless his family and all of those in mourning. His death is such a devastating loss to all of his friends as well as the community.

Linda & Butch Jackson Sr

August 8, 2005

Laura,

We were so sorry to hear about your brother. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.

Showing 1 - 74 of 74 results

Make a Donation
in Wallace Shumaker's name

How to support Wallace's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Wallace Shumaker's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Wallace Shumaker's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 20, 2006

Someone posted to the memorial.

February 23, 2006

LISA TAYLOR-JONES posted to the memorial.

August 22, 2005

Lillie Powell posted to the memorial.