Virginia Arlene (Martin) Shumate, 78, of Bristol, Va. went to be with Jesus on January 26, 2010, following a brave battle with cancer. She was a lifelong Christian, originally from Damascus Virginia, but had lived in Bristol for the past 40 years. Virginia retired from Raytheon after more than 25 years of service. In recent years, she enjoyed car trips, bingo games, eating out, shopping, and looked forward to her daily, (and vastly entertaining), visits from the family dogs.

She is survived by her loving family; Her beloved son , Danny Shumate and his wife Cathy. “Mamaw” adored her grandchildren, Tessa (Shumate) Manzie and her husband Dan, and Sam Shumate and his wife, Amy. She delighted in her great-grandsons, Jim and Joe Manzie. She loved them all and was blessed to have them close to her during her final days. Virginia is also survived by her sweet sister Geraldine Rosenbalm, and her dear brother, Junior Phillips. She will be greatly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; especially her best pal, Narcia Branham.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband Clarence Shumate, sister, Laura Suthers, and brother, Bill Martin.

Virginia Shumate frequently spoke of her wish that we all be happy for her at this time. The Lord has welcomed home His faithful servant, and she is waiting now to greet us one day at Heaven’s Gate!

A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 P.M., Thursday, January 28, 2010 in Akard Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Scott Price officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M., prior to the service at Akard Funeral Home.

Email condolences may be sent to the family at akardfh@akardfuneralhome.com