Published on March 3, 2026 2:30 pm
Last Updated on March 3, 2026 2:32 pm
Gene Schumacher, 81, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at Hospice of West Alabama. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was rooted in faith, family, and service.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Lynn Wood (Brandon) of Birmingham, Alabama; granddaughters, Taylor Bradshaw (Austin) and Addison Wood of Birmingham, Alabama; siblings, Sr. Clarita Schumacher of Joliet, Illinois, Phil Schumacher of Jasper, Alabama, Joe Schumacher of Sigel, Illinois, Mary Beth (Dennis) Niebrugge of Effingham, Illinois, and Susan (Greg) Bushur of Effingham, Illinois; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Juanita Schumacher; his parents, Norbert and Marianne Schumacher; and his brother, David Schumacher.
Gene was a faithful member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. He deeply loved his church family and rarely missed the fellowship of coffee and doughnuts, where he enjoyed sharing laughter, stories, and friendship. His faith guided his life and shaped the kindness and generosity he showed to everyone he met.
A proud alumni of the University of Alabama, Gene was a former basketball player and a lifelong fan of Alabama athletics. He had a special love for the Alabama Crimson Tide and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on. He especially enjoyed reminiscing and telling stories about his time on the court, sharing memories of his playing days with family and friends who loved hearing them again and again.
Gene will be remembered for his gentle spirit, strong faith, and the love he freely gave. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, loyalty, and devotion that will continue to live on through his family and all who knew him. He was a graduate of Teutopolis and has several survivors in this area.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Visitation will be held at Holy Spirit Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on March 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. and a celebration of life at 12:00 p.m.