Harold V. Sumners

Harold V. Sumners, Jr. passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 7, 2020, at the age of 75. Mr. Sumners is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, two children: Heather Purdy (David) and Harold Sumners III. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Finn and Jackson Purdy. He is lovingly remembered by his sister, Patricia Sumners-Drake (James), niece, Melanie Grace Dozier, and brother, Larry Sumners (Marianne). The firstborn son of Addie Rhew Watson and Harold Sumners, Harold Jr. grew up in Calhoun City. After graduating from Calhoun City High School, he joined the Air Force in what would become a 26-year military career. His military career started in Okinawa, Japan. This is where he began his work of volunteering with the Church with a missionary group, “Fishers of Men.” He then moved to Wright-Patterson Air Base in Dayton, Ohio, where he met his wife, Sharon. His job took him and his bride to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Later, he and his family had the opportunity to travel and live at Homestead Air Force Base in Homestead, Florida, to Yakota Air Base in Fussa, Japan, and finally Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS. He retired as a Master Sergeant (First Shirt) and settled down, making Biloxi his home. Mr. Sumners also had a spiritual calling to the ministry of sacred music. He served at various churches as a Music Minister and Choir Director. In retirement, Harold worked at William Carey College, managing the Coast Campus Bookstore. This is where he affectionately received the nickname, “Bookstore Harold.” Visitation will be held at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home on Pass Road in Biloxi on Monday, December 14, 2020 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. A private burial will be held. Harold always gave to others in need in various ways. He had a giving heart and looked for ways to help others. With this in mind, in lieu of flowers, please help someone in need or donate to an organization in his memory. View and sign online tribute at www.bokfh.com.