Community Mourns the Loss of Philanthropist Nettie Champion Dumais

A beautiful tribute to the community spirit that Nettie Champion Dumais embodied.

News Summary

Nettie Champion Dumais, an esteemed member of the Augusta community, passed away at 88, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and service. Known for her unwavering dedication to helping others, she was actively involved in various community activities, from teaching to crafting. Her family, friends, and many residents will remember her for her warm hospitality and commitment to nurturing her community. Visitation and funeral services are set to honor her remarkable life and contributions.

Augusta, Georgia – Nettie Champion Dumais, aged 88, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born Clara Annette Schwartz on March 10, 1937, in Kansas City, Missouri, Nettie was a beloved figure in her community and will be long remembered for her kindness, generosity, and dedication to helping others.

She is survived by her two daughters, Christina (Christy) M. Sisk and Rebecca (Becky) S. Champion. Nettie also leaves behind two step-daughters, Diane Dumais (Henry Gordon) and Denise Dumais (George Johnston), along with her grandsons, John Sisk and Andrew (Andy) Sisk, and great-granddaughter, Autumn Sisk. She had several nieces and a nephew, including Cynthia Busenlehner, Terry DeLille (David), Sherry Dillon, and Matthew Busenlehner. Nettie was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick J. Schwartz and Mildred F. Benes Schwartz; her first husband, George Moore Champion Jr.; her second husband, Bernard G. Dumais; her son, George Moore Champion III; her sister, Suzanne Schwartz Busenlehner; and step-son Mark Dumais.

Nettie grew up in St. Louis/Webster Groves, Missouri, before graduating from Avondale High School in Atlanta, where her classmates voted her “Most Likely to Succeed.” In 1961, she moved to Augusta, Georgia, where she devoted her life to serving the community. Her professional career spanned over 35 years at Jim Courson Realty, where she worked as a realtor, bookkeeper, and property manager, retiring in 2024.

Throughout her life, Nettie was actively engaged in numerous community activities. She was known as a yard mother, worked in local schools, taught CCD classes, led cub scout groups, and participated in church committees. Her commitment to nurturing her community made her a cherished member of Augusta.

In addition to her civic contributions, Nettie had a passion for crafts that included miniatures through the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts, quilting, scrapbooking, and sewing for her family. She was known for her warm hospitality, creating a welcoming environment for family and friends alike. Nettie’s creative side extended to her love of collecting, as she found beauty in everyday items. She participated in boating activities as a member of the Savannah River Sail and Power Squadron, despite not owning a boat.

Nettie’s personal philosophy was encapsulated in her favorite saying, which reflected her outlook on life: “We do what we need to do, with as much style and grace as possible.” Her love for chocolate had a humorous note, as she playfully referred to it as “brain food.”

Visitation for Nettie Champion Dumais will take place on June 12, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Thomas Poteet and Son Funeral Directors in Augusta. A funeral Mass will follow on June 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s on the Hill Church, with interment at Westover Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Nettie’s name to Aquinas High School, located at 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, GA 30904.

Nettie Champion Dumais’ legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her life touched many, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community.