Former Player Turned Coach Glenna Shumate, a Beloved Lewis County Basketball Mentor and Creative Spirit, Passes Away at 55

Glenna Shumate was a Dedicated Coach, Artist, and Family Woman Whose Warmth and Inspiration Touched Countless Lives in Lewis County.

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Glenna Michelle Ginn Shumate, a beloved figure in her community, passed away at the age of 55 on Monday, August 11, 2025, at her home in Lewis County, Ohio.

Her sudden death has left a hole in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her passion for sports, creativity, and kindness.

Glenna was An Avid Sports Fan and Grew Up with a Love for Athletics

Born as Glenna Michelle Ginn on October 22, 1969, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to Mitchell Glenn Swimm and Patricia Ann Ginn, Glenna grew up with a love for athletics.

She was a standout athlete in her school years, excelling in basketball and softball.

That passion for sports carried into her adult life, where she became a dedicated girls’ basketball coach for the Lewis County School system.

Glenna’s enthusiasm for the game inspired countless young athletes, and her coaching went beyond the court—she was a mentor, a motivator, and a friend.

Glenna’s love for sports has grown into her hobbies. She enjoyed playing golf, shooting pool, and cheering for her favorite NFL teams and college basketball games.

Her competitive spirit was matched only by her creativity.

Glenna was an artist at heart, finding joy in drawing, painting, designing t-shirts, and capturing life’s moments through photography.

Her creative spark brought beauty to everything she did, from her artwork to the way she lived her life.

Beyond coaching, Glenna was a savvy entrepreneur. Later in life, she ran several gas stations, including a Valero, where her leadership and warmth left a lasting impact.

One colleague, Sarah Howard, shared,

“Glenna was an amazing woman and always treated me like her own. She took me under her wing at Valero and pushed me forward. I’m so sorry. If you ever need anything or someone to talk to, I’m always here.”

Via Facebook

Her ability to uplift those around her was proof of her generous spirit.

Glenna’s greatest joy was her family. She was married to her loving husband, Todd Shumate, for six years. Together, they loved to travel and make memories.

Glenna was a devoted mother to her children, Brittany Lewis, Kristen Chinn, and Michael Lewis, and a doting grandmother to her grandchildren.

Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

The News of Glenna’s Passing has brought an Outpouring of Grief and Love from those who Knew Her

Marsha Ruark, a close family member, wrote,

“My beautiful Glenna, I’m still in shock. You were taken from us too soon. It’s never easy losing someone, but when it’s family, it hits hard! Loved you so much, and you knew that. R.I.P.”

Via Facebook

Deborah Shumate added,

“Such a beautiful lady with a beautiful smile! Glenna was always so kind! My heart is broken. Prayers for peace and comfort for Todd and all family and friends!”

Via Facebook

Glenna’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and connection. Her kindness touched everyone she met, and her infectious smile lit up any room.

She leaves behind her husband, Todd; her children, Brittany, Kristen, and Michael; her grandchildren; and a community that will forever remember her warmth and spirit.

A visitation for friends and loved ones will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at Dickerson Funeral Home in Lewis County.

Funeral services will follow at noon, officiated by Brother Sam Parks and Brother Tommy Parks.

All are welcome to come and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who lived with passion and purpose.

Reshma
Reshma
Reshma is a content editor recognized for her ability to create engaging digital content, ensure quality, and deliver stories that connect with audiences.

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