Marshall County District One Commissioner Ronny Shumate passed away at his residence in Arab on Monday evening.
Shumate was diagnosed with a terminal cancer in his abdomen just two weeks ago, following an examination at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
"Commissioner Shumate was recently (approximately 14 days ago) diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer which had metastasized in his abdomen by the time it was detected," County Attorney Clint L. Maze told FOX54. "[Shumate] was at home on hospice care when he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family."
Following news of Shumate's passing, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) offered condolences and praised the commissioner's dedication to public service.
"I’m saddened to learn of the death of Marshall County Commissioner Ronny Shumate," Aderholt wrote in a social media post. "He dedicated his life to public service, from law enforcement to the county commission. He will be greatly missed. We are praying for his family and friends."
I’m saddened to learn of the death of Marshall County Commissioner Ronny Shumate. He dedicated his life to public service from law enforcement to the county commission. He will be greatly missed. We are praying for his family and friends.
— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) December 30, 2025
Prior to his time on the commission, Shumate served with the Huntsville Police Department and on the Arab City Council.
Shumate's death is the third on the commission this year. In May, Chairman James Hutcheson died, followed by his replacement, David Reed, in June.
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