Aaron Michael Holley Shumate

In Loving Memory of

Aaron Michael Holley Shumate

Also known as "Big A"

December 23, 1985 - March 20, 2025

Aaron Michael Holley Shumate, 39, of Columbus, Ohio, transitioned to eternal life on Thursday, March 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born just two days before Christmas on December 23, 1985, Aaron was a treasured gift to his family. His parents, Alex and Sharon, fondly recall his older brother John telling them that year, "This is the best Christmas ever. My little brother is the best present."

Aaron-lovingly known as Big A-brought an unmistakable energy wherever he went. He graduated from Bishop Hartley High School in 2004, where he played football as a proud Hartley Hawk. He later attended the University of Toledo and remained a

passionate sports enthusiast throughout his life, especially cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State game days were sacred-particularly when shared with his father, son, and brother in the stadium.

Aaron had a larger-than-life personality and a style all his own. A lifelong lover of rap music, fashion, and jewelry, his flair began early-sparked by a childhood encounter with Run of Run DMC. His signature chains and bold fashion sense became his personal brand, one he would later channel into his life's mission: uplifting the next generation.

As Founder and CEO of Building Young Minds (BYM), Aaron created a platform to support the educational, physical, mental, and spiritual health of youth in Central Ohio. Established in 2006, BYM offered after-school programs and mentoring opportunities rooted in empowerment and resilience. Aaron's passion for service left a lasting mark on countless lives.

More than anything, Aaron adored his family. He cherished time spent at Shumate family functions, Holley holiday gatherings, Henson family reunions, Sherrod Sunday dinners, and hanging out with his dad, Alex; mom, Sharon; and brother, John.

His true pride and joy-his heart and soul-was his son, Aaron II. He poured his love and knowledge into him, coaching him in football and mentoring him with the same compassion and enthusiasm he offered so many others.

Aaron also had a brotherhood of friends that remained constant throughout his life-men who laughed with him, stood by him and shared in his triumphs and challenges. He valued these friendships deeply, and his family extends a special message to that circle:

Thank you for being a part of Aaron's journey. Your love, loyalty, and presence meant the world to him. Continue to lift one another up and live boldly, just as he did.

Aaron was a man of faith who found spiritual grounding at New Salem Baptist Church. One of his guiding beliefs was simple, yet powerful:

"Believe in God, ourselves, and hard work."

He is survived by his parents, Sharon Louise Holley Shumate and Alex (Renee) Shumate; his son, Aaron Shumate II (and his mother, Ca'Rita Cornute); his brother, John (Shana) Shumate; aunts Zennie Shumate, Valerie (Larry) King, Valita (Walter) Luckett, and Beth (Myron) Cherry; uncle Glen (Elaine) Shumate; nephews Jackson and Chase Shumate; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Annie Shumate and John and Louise Holley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Aaron Shumate Legacy Fund at the Columbus Foundation, 1234 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205. For more information, please contact Steven Moore at smoore@columbusfoundation.org.

Arrangements entrusted to Marlan J. Gary Funeral Home, The Chapel of Peace.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at First Church of God, 3480 Refugee Rd, Columbus, OH 43232.

Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a service at 12:45 p.m., officiated by Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, Pastor of First Church of God. Interment will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43213

Service will also be lived streamed at: https://vimeo.com/event/3397696/embed/interaction

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have shown love and support during this difficult time. Aaron's smile, heart, and legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. Ministry of Comfort entrusted to MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST 5456 E. Livingston Ave. To offer condolences to The SHUMATE Family, visit www.TheChapelofPeace.com