of Greenbrier, AR
December 29, 1924 - January 17, 2019
''Royce Derwin Shumate, 94, of Greenbrier, left his earthly home for his heavenly one, Thursday, January 17, 2019. He was born December 29, 1924 near Greenbrier, AR to the late Stanley Hanford Shumate and Zella Arlis McNew Shumate. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 70 years, Glenna Doris Blair Shumate in 2016 and infant son, Royce, Jr in 1957. Royce was also preceded in death by brothers, Melton Shumate, Alton Shumate, sisters, Betty Ferrell Pate, and Mildred Jeanette Rodgers.
Royce was a longtime member of Centerville United Methodist Church. He was a Navy Veteran, serving in WWII in the South Pacific. In his later years, Navy experiences were his main topic of conversation.
Royce is survived by daughters, Linda Arnold (Robert) and Bettizelle Abrams (Bob) all of Greenbrier. Also left to cherish his silly stories, teasing and gestures are grandchildren, Rob Arnold (Mindi) of CA; Heather Arnold of Greenbrier; Christie Abrams (Jon) AZ; and Stacy Abrams (Eddie) MD. He also leaves five great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Special thanks goes to the caregivers of Seeds of Love and Kindred Hospice Services for providing excellent care for the last 4 and ½ months of his life.
Funeral Services will be Monday, January 21, 2019 at 1:00pm at Roller McNutt Funeral Home, in Greenbrier. Visitation will be one hour prior to service. Interment will be in McNew Cemetery, Greenbrier, AR. In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to McNew Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 124, Greenbrier, AR 72058; Centerville United Methodist Church, 76 Blythe Road, Greenbrier, AR 72058 or Springhill Baptist Church, 25 Hwy 287, Greenbrier, AR 72058.
Online Guestbook available at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier
Oh what great memories I have of getting to go fishing as a young boy with my Grandad Shumate (Bill) at Uncle Royce's pond! Prayers for the family.
Praying for peace and comfort.
linda, Bettizelle, and rest of the family,
U’m So sorry for your loss. He was a great man. Remember all of the great memories you have of him. I’ll keep all of you in my prayers.