Sarah Thomas Chumley

1930 - 2024

Sarah Thomas Chumley

December 19, 1930 - May 3, 2024

Charlotte, North Carolina - Sarah Thomas "Sallie" Chumley , 93 of Charlotte, NC died peacefully surrounded by the love of her family and friends. With her million dollar smile, she was always full of joy and thoroughly loved by all that knew her. She was devoted to her family, especially her precious grandchildren who called her, Grandma, Granny and G-Ma.

She was born December 19, 1930 in Charlotte to William "Wayt" and Sarah Miller (Brown) Thomas. Sallie lived most of her adult life here, being a resident for over 65 years. She moved around as a child, but ended up in Augusta, Georgia where she graduated from High School in 1947. She went to St. Mary's College in Raleigh, NC and graduated in 1949, and went on to finish her degree in Mathematics at UNC – Chapel Hill in 1951.

After college, she met Ted Chumley and they got married in 1954. She had two sons, Glenn and Tom, and then moved to Charlotte where Ted sold Real Estate for John Crosland. They had another son, John and daughter, Becky.

Sallie worked in the insurance business with Aetna Life and Casualty, The Equitable and Cigna.

She was a member of Myers Park Presbyterian Church and participated in Circle groups. Also an avid bridge player, she played in several bridge clubs and was also a substitute player. Her love for UNC Tarheel basketball and the beach topped her list. She hosted many parties to watch basketball games with family and friends for years. If you called her during a game, she answered "GO TARHEELS". She was an active member of the UNC alumni association throughout her life.

Sallie's most famous parties were her annual Christmas Eve parties that she hosted for over 45 years. Many friends faithfully came to celebrate and have a great time bringing in Christmas. These are cherished, wonderful memories for all that have been to those parties.

Cherry Grove Beach, SC was a beloved place for Sallie. After retirement, she spent one month a year there with her friends and family, walking up the beach and playing games and cards. These good times will be missed by all.

Sallie was predeceased by her Mother and father, brothers Bill (Sara) Thomas and Joe (Leila) Thomas and nephew Harrison Thomas.

Sallie is survived by her four children, Glenn Chumley, Thomas "Tom" (Melanie) Chumley, John (Susie Watts) Chumley and daughter Rebecca "Becky" (Marc ) Chavaree. Two other "adopted" daughters, Susan Gravely Piazza and Peggy Hopkins were very special to her.

Also surviving are her six grandchildren, Michael Chase, Rebecca Karlson, Travis Chumley, Preston Chumley, Jacy Grice and Kennedy Chumley. She has several nephews, a niece, and other relatives.

We will have a celebration of life service Saturday, May 18, 2024 at Hankins and Whittington, 1111 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203. We will receive friends at 10 a.m. and the service at 11 a.m. There will be a private burial for the family at Elmwood Cemetery, 700 W. 6th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Loaves and Fishes/Nourish UP, PO Box 680791, Charlotte, NC 28216 or nourishup.org/donate/