Obituary - Evelyn Shumate Hatcher
Evelyn Shumate Hatcher, 78, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away June 19th. Devoted to her husband of 58 years, Roger Hatcher, Evelyn was the heart of her family. She and Roger raised three children—Paul, Laura, and Will—and delighted in their six grandchildren: Cate, Megan, Mason, Lila, Tristan, and Olivia.
Born September 6, 1947, in Richmond, Virginia, to Jesse and Doris (Dot) Shumate, Evelyn grew up in Sandston, where she swam, played basketball and tennis, and was active at Sandston Presbyterian Church. In recent years she remained connected to her hometown through the Founders Club of Sandston.
After studying at Radford University, Evelyn returned to Richmond thinking of a young man she’d met at a Virginia Tech mixer. On June 15, 1968, she married the love of her life, Roger, who promised her adventure—and delivered. Together they explored the American landscape, with special fondness for San Francisco and Santa Fe. After many moves, they made a home in Midlothian before settling in Cumberland County, where she helped run Allendale Farm and cherished the peace of the countryside.
Evelyn worked with several companies over the years, finding her greatest joy most recently at the Cumberland County Public Library. A lifelong reader and dedicated community member, she embraced her role there as a perfect blend of passion and purpose. She was an active member of the Guinea Presbyterian Church.
She loved ice cream, movies, and a good book—but most of all, she loved staying close to her children, often calling just to ask, “What’s new?” Sharp, perceptive, and quick to help, Evelyn had a gift for hearing what went unsaid and a steadfast willingness to put others first.
Evelyn is survived by her husband, Roger; her children, Paul, Laura, and Will, and their families; her sister, June Baldwin; and her brother, Danny Shumate. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Guinea Presbyterian Church, 1176 Guinea Road, Farmville Va, 23901, followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at the church cemetery.
Those wishing to honor Evelyn’s memory are invited to make a memorial donation in her name to Central Virginia Regional Library.
