News Summary
The Augusta community is grieving the loss of two treasured individuals, Nicholas Marquel Champion and Nettie Dumais, who both made significant contributions to the local fabric. Nicholas was deeply loved by his family, and his passing at 40 years old has left a void. Nettie, who lived a life dedicated to service and kindness, passed away at 88, leaving behind a legacy of love. Community members are coming together to honor their memories with celebrations of life and memorial services.
Augusta, Georgia – The community of Augusta is in mourning following the recent deaths of two cherished figures, Nicholas Marquel Champion and Nettie Dumais. Both individuals made lasting impacts on the lives of those around them, and their contributions to the community will never be forgotten.
Nicholas Marquel Champion, aged 40, passed away on September 14, 2025. Born on October 17, 1984, Nicholas is survived by his mother, Carmelita Clemons-Champion, his brother Brandon Champion, and sister-in-law Alyssa. He cherished his role as an uncle to his nephew, Zayden Champion, and niece, ZaNiyah Champion, both of whom played significant roles in his life. Nicholas is also mourned by many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael B. Champion, grandmother Karrye Clemons, and grandfather Joe Clemons.
A Celebration of Life for Nicholas is scheduled for September 21, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Sand Hills Community Center, Augusta, GA 30904. The community is invited to come together to honor his memory and support his family during this difficult time.
Nettie Dumais, born Clara Annette Schwartz, passed away at the age of 88 on June 7, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family. Nettie is survived by her daughters, Christina (Christy) M. Sisk and Rebecca (Becky) S. Champion, as well as two step-daughters, Diane Dumais and Denise Dumais. She treasured her role as a grandmother to grandsons John Sisk and Andrew (Andy) Sisk, and great-granddaughter Autumn Sisk. Nettie’s brother was Frederick G. Schwartz, and she had several nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.
Nettie was born on March 10, 1937, in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in St. Louis/Webster Groves. She was known for her nurturing spirit and unwavering commitment to helping others. A proud alumnus of Avondale High School, she was recognized as “Most Likely to Succeed” during her time there. In 1961, she settled in Augusta, where she dedicated her life to acts of kindness and service.
Over her lifetime, Nettie worked multiple jobs, ultimately retiring in 2024 after an impressive 35 years at Jim Courson Realty. She was deeply involved in her children’s schools and church groups, contributing to numerous community services. Nettie also had a creative side, engaging in crafts such as miniatures, quilting, and sewing and was known for her love of chocolate and her belief in performing small acts of love.
A visitation for Nettie Dumais will be held on June 12, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Thomas Poteet and Son Funeral Directors. A funeral Mass for her will take place on June 13, 2025, at St. Mary’s on the Hill Church, followed by interment at Westover Memorial Park. In honor of her memory, the family requests that donations in Nettie’s name be directed to Aquinas High School in Augusta, Georgia.
The community is coming together to celebrate the lives of both Nicholas and Nettie, demonstrating the profound impact both individuals had on the fabric of Augusta, Georgia. Their legacies of love, kindness, and community service will be cherished and remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing them.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle Obituaries
- Thomas Poteet – Clara Dumais Obituary
- New York Times – Masters and Black Caddies
- Legacy – Steve Wright Obituary
- Kansas Sports – Varsity News
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.