This world lost a link in the divine chain of love on October 9, 2018 when Marian Siler Sumner closed her eyes forever. A memorial service will be held in Siler City on November 10 with friend and Pastor Mary Langley presiding.
Marian was born in Chatham County, North Carolina on April 9, 1943 to the late Edith Leonard Siler and Samuel T. Siler Sr. She is survived by her two sons, Loren Sumner (Juli) of Macon, GA and Kevin Sumner of Covington, KY; daughter Avery Sumner (André Bizard) of Candler, NC; sons-by-marriage Dylan Sumner (Regan Jager) and Todd Sumner (Dawn Krow) of Tallahassee, FL; four grandchildren, Jessica Sumner of Macon, GA, Talise Jager-Sumner and Gabriel Sumner of Tallahassee, FL and Clara Sumner-Bizard of Candler, NC; her brother Sam Siler Jr. (Sally) of Ellijay, GA; and former spouse and father to her children, Ivan Sumner of Athens, GA. She is predeceased by former husband, Neal Stout.
Marian made an impression on this world through her family and friends with unconditional love and quiet understanding. In her professional career, Dr. Marian Sumner served as a compassionate leader in the field of education as a school principal, librarian and teacher. She was an endless scholar of life, immersing herself in every relevant interest and concern.
Marian studied, worked and lived in many places in her life including Siler City-NC, Tallahassee-FL, Florence/Bellevue-KY, Hiawassee-GA, Philmont-NY, Asheville-NC, and France. She attended Ben Lippen High School, Jordan-Mathews High School, Houghton College, Florida State University and the University of Kentucky.
Diagnosed with cancer in June 2018, her son, Kevin, tirelessly managed her care and comfort around the clock. She finally passed in her home surrounded by her children with the same grace with which she lived.
Her self-sacrificing love shines in all the people her presence touched.
Services for Marian will be held on November 10, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Grove Christian Church, 5946 Pleasant Grove Church Road in Bennett, NC.
Arrangements entrusted to Asheville Mortuary Services.
