Helen M. Schumaker

Helen M. Schumaker, 78, of Chillicothe, passed away suddenly following a brief illness at 9:19am November 3, 2026, at the Ohio State University Medical Center.

She was born June 21, 1948, in Chillicothe, to the late Edward L. and Sylvia M. (Proper) Newton. On January 18, 1969, she married the love of her life, Rex D. Schumaker, who preceded her in death on December 24, 2022.

Surviving are her daughter, Cynthia G. Schumaker, Chillicothe; son, Russell D. (Margaret) Schumaker, Glen Ellyn, IL; grandchildren, Benjamin D. and Madalyn J. Schumaker; her sisters, Nancy E. Woods, Shirley A. (Charles) Warner, brother, Howard E. (Vicki) Newton; sister-in-law M. Ann Newton; as well as many special nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her beloved older brother, Harold L. Newton.

Helen graduated from Chillicothe High School, class of 1966. She obtained a Master’s Degree in Education from Ohio University, and served 30 years in her dream job as an educator with the Chillicothe City Schools across multiple grades at both Tiffin Elementary School and Smith Middle School. During her tenure as a teacher, she had the pleasure to collaborate with many dedicated, wonderful fellow educators, and impacted the lives of many students – many of whom became lifelong friends.

In retirement, Helen enjoyed spending time with family and friends, travelling all over the world, doting on her grandchildren, participating in groups and clubs, including the Red Hats and PEO, and serving her community. She was a voracious reader. She enjoyed her Hobby Club and Book Club, and all the fantastic, interesting, vibrant women of these groups with which she developed deep friendships. She dedicated time to the Friends of the Chillicothe-Ross County Public Library for which she served as a board member and Annual Book Sale volunteer. Also, she enjoyed volunteering at the Chillicothe Caboose where she served as a guide. Helen was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, and regardless of the circumstances she would find the bright (and, if possible, the humorous) side of the situation. She will be remembered for her warmth and kindness to everyone she met, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held at 11am Monday, November 9, 2026, at Grandview Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 2-4pm at the Haller Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Chillicothe-Ross County Public Library, Caboose Maintenance And Restoration Fund, Inc., or the American Cancer Society.