Merle Sumner

Graveside services for Merle Sumner, 87 of Thomasville will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, September 27, 2017 at Salem Cemetery. Pastor Danny Alfred will officiate. Pallbearers will be Todd Milam, Jeff Allen, Derek Knight, David Tinsley, Jr., and Derrik Hiers. Mr. Sumner went home to be with the Lord September 25, 2017 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. Born March 28, 1930 in Ocilla, he was the son of the late James Sumner and Annie Moncrief Sumner. He was married to Martha Mobley Sumner, who survives. Mr. Sumner proudly served in the United States Army and was a member of Faith Baptist Church. He retired from Balfour Lumber Company after more than 30 years of service. He loved bluegrass music; he started playing at age 7 and could play numerous instruments. He loved to fish and to spend time with family and friends. He is survived by a son, Michael Sumner and wife Carolyn of Valdosta; daughters, Carla Milam and husband Todd of Ochlocknee and Christie Allen and husband Jeff of Cairo; grandchildren, Luke Sumner, Harrison Sumner, John Thompson Sumner and Collin Milam and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by numerous loved brothers and sisters. The family will receive friends 5-7pm, Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at the funeral home.