Noreen Lyons Schumacher

FLAT ROCK, NC – Norah Lyons Schumacher passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, surrounded by her husband, family, and dear friends. Born Noreen Frances Lyons on March 6, 1949, in Bennington, Vermont, she was the daughter of the late Brendan L. Lyons and Noreen Bannon Lyons. She was preceded in death by her brother, Brendan L. Lyons, Jr.

She served as a fine art dealer for Sotheby’s in New York City and Los Angeles and worked with the renowned auction house Parke-Bernet in New York and Maui. During her tenure at CBS Records in New York, she managed artists like Ted Nugent, the Charlie Daniels Band, and Joe Cocker.

Norah dedicated her life to activism and animal welfare. She was a devoted volunteer at the Wildlife Way Station Large Animal Rescue in Los Angeles and Siberian Husky rescue efforts. She famously championed a “David versus Goliath” battle to prevent a waste disposal site from encroaching on protected land—an achievement documented in the Los Angeles Times.

After moving to the mountains of North Carolina, Norah continued her service by initiating a monthly bingo program at the local Veterans Administration Hospital, where she often personally funded the prizes. She was instrumental in resurrecting the Hendersonville Women’s Club. Under her leadership as President, the charitable organization celebrated its 100th anniversary.

Norah is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, David R. Schumacher. Together, they shared a life of profound love and adventure, traveling the world from China, New Zealand and Bali to Europe, the Caribbean, and across the United States.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Michael Schumacher, Shawna Brown, and granddaughter Lauren Brown. She also leaves behind her sisters, Carol Muller and Deborah Lyons.

Norah’s burial and memorial service will take place in her native Vermont at a future date. Condolences can be sent to the Groce Funeral Home, 72 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.