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.