Rita Jean Shumate

May 13, 1938 – February 21, 2026

Rita Jean Shumate, born May 13, 1938, in Clarksville, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 21, 2026.

Later in life, Jean moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with her late husband, Jim Shumate. Together they enjoyed the simple pleasures of coastal life — time at the beach, fishing, and sharing life side by side. Jim was her lifelong partner, and their years together were meaningful and steady.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Shumate.

She is survived by her two sons, Jeff Shumate of North Myrtle Beach, SC, and Mark Shumate (Carla) of Charlotte, NC; and her daughter, Marsha Ratliff and her partner, Sonya Taylor, of High Point, NC.

She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Amber Ratliff, Daniel Ratliff, Erin Coburn, Anna Parker Shumate, and Sara Shumate; as well as two great-grandchildren, Camden Ratliff and Calvin Coburn.

She loved her family in the ways she knew how. She found joy in the ocean, peaceful days by the water, and she had a special love for animals.

She will be remembered through the life she built, the family she raised, and the generations that follow.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with arrangements.