Paul Antony Gerard Shumaker

Paul Shumaker, age 70, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by family.

Paul was a man of quiet faith, strong character, and authenticity. He was always honest – sometimes brutally so – but those who knew him best understood that his words were always genuine and came from the heart. His strong work ethic was a legacy he proudly passed down to his sons, along with the values of integrity, perseverance, and love of family.

Paul was also a kind-hearted man who quietly performed countless acts of service and kindness without ever expecting recognition or accolades. He had a wonderful sense of humor that remained with him even throughout his illness, and he had a unique gift for turning almost any life event into an entertaining story. His laughter, storytelling, and ability to make others smile will be remembered and dearly missed by all who knew him.

Paul was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He worked for Phillips 66, and in 2018, he happily retired after 30 years of employment. After retiring, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning a camp on Toledo Bend. The camp was his happy place, and he lived his best life in the time spent there.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Casey and Blanche Shumaker; his sister, Neva Baltz; his brother-in-law, Roy Dupont; his father-in-law, John Sonnier, Sr.; and his nephew, Jonathan Sonnier.

Left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 40 years, Linda Gail Sonnier Shumaker; his sons - of whom he was extremely proud - Aaron (Michelle) Shumaker, Garret Shumaker, and Jared (Victoria) Shumaker; his beloved grandchildren Harley, Peyton, AJ, Lincoln, August, and Penelope; his siblings, Lesley Dupont, Trudy (Brian) Borne, Becky (Wade) Boyett, Casey Shumaker, and Blanche (Stuart) Landry; his in-laws, Sandy (Charlie) Richard, John (Roxanne) Sonnier, and Jerry (Jeni) Sonnier; the Mason girls — Aubrey, Addyson, Alyssa, and Avary; numerous nieces, nephews; and extended family members.

The family would like to extend special thanks to their family nurses, Denise Peshoff and Amanda Mason, whose guidance, compassion, and unwavering support helped them navigate this journey in ways that can never be fully repaid.

Visitation will take place at Johnson Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 12 beginning at 5:00 pm, with a Rosary at 6:00 pm. Visitation will continue Wednesday, May 13 from 9:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am at St. Margaret Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Margaret Catholic School, St. Louis Catholic High School, or the charity of your choice.