Denise Shumaker

ASHMORE – Denise D. Shumaker, 72, of Ashmore, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2025 at her home.

Denise was born October 31, 1952, at Robinson, Illinois, daughter of Virgil V. and Nellie M. (Newberry) Blakeman.  She married David A. Shumaker, August 22, 1974; he survives.  Also surviving are their children, Darin A. Shumaker and wife Kerri of Charleston and Valerie G. Wright and husband Timothy of Springfield, IL; grandchildren, Jeromy Shumaker, Zachary Andersen, Hannah Andersen, Corinne Cohoon, and Avery Cohoon.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Maurice W. Blakeman.

Denise grew up on a farm in rural Clark County with her family and many animal friends. She attended Martinsville High School and went on to graduate from Eastern Illinois University earning a bachelor's degree in education. After graduating Denise worked as a substitute teacher in Kansas, Charleston, and Mattoon area schools for many years. She later worked as a caseworker at CCAR industries and CTF in Charleston, IL.

Denise had a huge heart for individuals with disabilities and loved helping them navigate life. She combined her passion for horses and people when she started Ray of Hope Equestrian Therapy Center, offering riding lessons or horse therapy to people of all needs. This labor of love brought her true joy and some of her fondest memories.

Denise loved all of God's creation, plant, animals and everything in between. She could see beauty in the mundane and often expressed this through her art. She loved to paint, especially using acrylic or watercolor. She also loved to explore other media and learn new techniques. Denise was a published author and illustrator of a children's book: A Snake with Two Tales, which is a funny story she liked to tell about David and his adventures on their farm.

Celebration of Life on February 8, 2025 at Family Worship Center, 411 Jackson Avenue, Charleson IL 61920

. Open house begins at 1pm to 4pm, followed by a message from Pastor Brandon Wright.

Private burial at a later date.  Arrangements: Harper=Swickard