Vernelle Shumpert Frick of Columbia, SC passed away Saturday, January 3, 2015. Born in Pelion, SC, on July 15, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Charlie Austin Shumpert and Viola Blanche Smith Shumpert; and the loving stepdaughter of the late Elizabeth Derrick Shumpert. Vernelle graduated from Batesburg-Leesville High School and Carolette Beauty College. Her education also included graduate studies from Fredericks of New York, New York and the University of South Carolina, as well as continuing education classes. She was a registered cosmetologist and the owner and operator of Eau Claire Beauty Shop for 50 years.

When deciding on a career, her mother advised her there would always be people who were sick and there would always be people who want to be more beautiful. She chose beauty and truly saw and found beauty in everyone and in everything. Vernelle loved the Lord, her family, friends and neighbors, and touched many people's lives. She was a kind, caring, peaceful, compassionate, intelligent mother and person. Her poise, grace, and love have been an inspiration to many.

She had an exceptional memory. If someone had a question, they would say "Call Vernelle, she will know the answer or find the answer." She will be greatly missed by many, but will always be in our hearts.

Her hobbies included a love for music and dance, cooking, reading, travel, fishing, art, antiques, gardening, nature especially flowers and birds. She was a member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Columbia, SC. Throughout her career, she was actively involved in many community projects and committees in the Eau Claire area.

She is survived by her daughters, Theresa Elizabeth "Beth" Frick and Pamela Frick (Kyle) Whitlock of Columbia, SC; a brother, Charles A. (Merlee S.) Shumpert of Florence, SC; many nieces and nephews; numerous special friends; and a very special caregiver, Lucille "Pat" Davis, our angel who lovingly assisted in her daily care. Vernelle was preceded in death by a sister, Lorine S. Lewis.

The family would like to thank Gentiva Home Health, Senior Health Associates, and the staff at Palmetto Richland Memorial, Pastor Ron Brown and Pastor Jackie Utley, the Dent, Scott, Wilbur, Lambert, Smith and Dacamera families. They would also like to express special gratitude and thanks to her loving neighbors, Diane Reynolds, Mary Hoefer, and Dot Harley.

The funeral service for Mrs. Frick will be 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 8th, with visitation from 1:00 until 1:45 pm at Ascension Lutheran Church, with The Rev. Jackie Utley officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 7100 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC.

Memorials may be made to Ascension Lutheran Church, 827 Wildwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29203; or to a charity of one's choice.