Lois "Ann" Polan Shumaker

Lois "Ann" Polan Shumaker, 68, a beloved member of her community, peacefully transitioned into her Heavenly home early Wednesday morning, October 22, 2025, at her residence. Born on November 7, 1956, in Wadley, Ann was a vibrant spirit known for her loving and caring nature, often described as a "fire cracker." She was fiercely independent and had a servant's heart, dedicating her life to helping and caring for others.

Ann’s early life was marked by academic excellence, graduating as the valedictorian of the 1974 class at Bartow Academy. She further pursued her education and obtained her LPN degree from Swainsboro Technical College. Ann's nursing career began at Glendale Nursing Home in Wadley, where she embraced her calling before moving on to serve at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta. She retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and diligence in her profession.

Following her marriage, Ann lived in Wrens. After her husband's passing, she and her sister created a home together on Ramsgate Drive, fostering a nurturing environment filled with love and laughter.

In her leisure time, Ann enjoyed engaging with family and friends, a passion that extended to her cherished activities, such as playing games on her phone and watching game shows on the Game Show Network. Her love for community and faith was evident as she actively participated in her church, having accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at a young age. Ann served at Coleman's Chapel before joining her nephew's church, Praising Him Ministries, where she remained a devoted member until her health declined.

Ann is survived by her brother, Johnny Polan Sr. (Christy); her stepson, Jason Shumaker; two step-granddaughters, Kinsley and Paisley Shumaker; her caregivers, Richard and Leslie Stavely, Richard Stavely Jr., Johnny Polan Jr, Jason Polan and Kristy Sotelo; her “fur babies”, Precious, Pebbles and Pepper; as well as nieces, nephews, other extended family, church family, and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Alexander George Shumaker; her parents, Lois Ouida Hall Polan and Okie Lee Polan; and her siblings, Ronnie Polan, James Polan, and Helen Stavely.

Visitation and the funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Praising Him Ministries, with the visitation starting at 11:00AM and the funeral service, officiated by Rev. Richard Stavely and Pastor Santana Mincey, at 1:00PM. The family will then proceed in procession to her interment in the Wadley City Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Sean “Church” Godwin, Johnny Polan Jr., Jimmy Polan, Jordan Polan, Richard Stavely Jr., Jason Velasquez, Robert Velasquez and D J Zellner with the Redemption Riders serving as honorary pallbearers and escort to the grave site.

Everyone is invited to join the family and friends as they gather to honor the incredible life Ann led, one that was filled with love, laughter, and unwavering faith.