Frances Gwynn Sumner

Mrs. Frances Gwynn Sumner, 79, of Mount Airy, entered into the more immediate presence of our Lord on Wednesday evening, March 15, 2023. Born February 26, 1944, in Patrick County, VA, she was the daughter of the late Ed and Gracie Eva Bateman Gwynn. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death her husband, Howard Kyle “Buddy” Sumner; three sisters, Mabelene Gwynn Harris, Shirlene Harrill, and Margie Hall; and three brothers, Cabel Gwynn, Lewis Gwynn, Fred Gwynn. Frances had an infectious smile and brightened the world with her contagious laughter and quick wit. A kind and generous woman, she loved children and learning. She graduated from Berra College and earned a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Frances and Buddy chose Grace Moravian Church as their place of worship and were devoted and faithful members. Even when she and Buddy lived away from Grace Moravian, they returned often to share in the rich traditions of the Christmas Lovefest and the Easter sunrise service. Frances dedicated her life to learning and influencing the lives of those around her as an educator, including years as an English teacher and later as a media specialist. She passed on her love of learning and reading to nearly everyone she encountered, including her sons and grandchildren. She loved her children and was a steadfast source of encouragement for everything they pursued. Her grandchildren held special places in her heart. During visits, she could be found either playing with them in the floor or snuggled up on a couch reading with them. Frances leaves her sons and a daughter-in-law, Brian K. and Dana F. Sumner of Raleigh and Christopher L. Sumner of Wilmington; her precious grandson, Beckett D. Sumner; a granddaughter, Madison Gwynn F. Sumner; and several nieces and nephews, who were faithful, supportive, and loving. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Grace Moravian Church, with the Rev. Robert Wolfe officiating. Burial will follow in God’s Acre. The family will receive friends in the church sanctuary on Tuesday from 1:00 until the time of the service at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Moravian Church, 1401 North Main Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030. Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.