AHOSKIE, NC – William Raby Sumner, age 57, passed away on May 20, 2022 at his home.
Mr. Sumner was born in Ahoskie, NC, on June 23, 1964, a son of the late Cecil Lawrence and Alice Ray Sumner. William was a graduate of Ahoskie High School and earned his Associates degree in business from Roanoke Chowan Community College. He worked as a Manager for James River Equipment Company. He was an avid Wolfpack fan and devoted member of the Wolfpack Club. Bill enjoyed listening to music, especially live, and enjoyed a wide variety of music, from Bluegrass to Beach Music. He was a lover of animals as was evident in his love for his feline friend, Smooth. Bill was a friend to many and will be missed by all who knew him.
Left to cherish his memory is his brother, Cecil Lawrence “C.L.” Sumner, Jr. of Ahoskie, NC; and his niece, Virginia LeighAnne Sumner of Eure, NC.
The family will receive friends on Monday, May 23, 2022, from 7:00 pm until 8:30 pm at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service of Ahoskie, NC.
A celebration of life graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, 11:00 am at the Sumner Family Cemetery, Ahoskie, NC, with Rev. Jim Skipper officiating.
Flowers are welcome or memorial donations may be made directly to Hickory Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church, 531 NC 561 East, Ahoskie, NC, 27910 or online by clicking here or to PAWS of Hertford County, 231 Mt. Moriah Rd., Ahoskie, NC 27910; or you may donate online by clicking here
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Sumner family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.
I heard the news about Bill from my mom and dad. CL, I know it has been many years since I have seen either you or Bill. But lots of fond memories of you both from the Hickory Chapel and Western Auto days in Ahoskie. I know you all were close and you will greatly miss him. You will be in my prayers.
There is no dout Mr. Bill is in heaven. I was very greatful to have a great conversation recently with him from talking about the old days of the Weyco logging jobs where he got to be great friends with my dad who he thought a lot of, to the present times of logging. We also talked about how great Jesus was in that conversation. With that being said he steady told me in that conversation to continue looking up because Jesus has all of us! His faith & belief in Jesus was strong. The JD store will never be the same without Mr. Bill. Until we meet again my friend! Prayers sent to the Sumner family. Keep looking up, Jesus has us!
CL, Very very sorry to hear about the passing of Bill. I know he will be missed by so many in the community. I know he’ll be looking down on us doing basketball, football and baseball season and he’ll be pulling for the Wolfpack!! Prayers for you my friend
Bill was a very good friend and a great parts manager we worked together and also played some good basketball together nice guy gone to soon prayers for your family brother
Sending condolences to C.L. I am saddened by the passing of Bill, and he will be missed by many. I have fond memories of ” hanging out” with the two of you back in the days. RIP Bill.
C.L. I’m sorry for your loss. Bill was a fun boss and friend. Over the years we developed a true friendship and I enjoyed working, talking and laughing with him. There won’t be a day that I will not walk into that building and not think of Bill.
So sorry to hear about Bill. Always checked with him about contacting a new band. He was such a great guy!! Rest in peace friend.
C.L.,
I am so sorry to hear you have lost your brother. I did not know him but apparently those who knew him, loved him so. He will live in your heart always.
C.L., Mary Ann and I are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I can only imagen the emptiness you must feel. Bill’s life in our eyes it seems ended much too soon. But God gives and takes away, and makes no mistake. You are in our thoughts and prayers, David and Mary Ann
David & I will Cherish the times we had with you Bill. Gone to soon.