Billie Wallace Sumner

My late husband and I met Billie in 1980 on our honeymoon. We purchased the first of our collection of her work that day. We asked if she would accept a check. Her reply was, "People who buy art don't bounce checks".
She was a marvelous woman and we were fortunate to know her.

Happy birthday mamaw. I know you're watching Justin and not doing anything you don't love. I miss you everyday more it seems. I will never stop trying to call u when i need an ear just to listen. I love u.

mamaw,
not a day goes by without me wanting to hear your voice one last time. I know you're watching Justin for us up there. I love you more than words will ever express and miss u more.

Mamaw not a day goes by without me thinking about you. I love u.

Just found out about Billie's passing. I knew her from Springmaid Watercolor Workhop. She and her husband were lovely people. My husband and I lived on Long Island at the time and stayed with them for a night on the way to Florida. She had one of my paintings and I have one of hers, which I love. Sincerely, Karen

We only just learned of Billie's passing. Our condolences to her family. We have many pieces of Billie's art including Window of Life. Although the art world lost a wonderful artist our home is a little brighter because of her. May God Bless.

She was my beautiful friend, and I loved her. Melissa, I am so sorry. Not everyone gets a mother so lovely. I will miss talking with her. I will miss all her encouragement and her love. May God care for her tenderly and give her unimaginable joy through all eternity.

To the Sumner family,

I'm so sorry for your loss. May God "comfort your hearts and make you firm" during this time of sorrow. 2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17

Thank you Billie for your dedicated years to Piccolo Spoleto. Thanks for your advice I was juried into the show twelve years ago. We know you'll always be there in spirit! Many thanks Billie!!9

Melissa and Donnie, we are so sorry to hear about Billie. We have such fond memories of being neighbors and friends of both Billie and Tommy for many years. We are thinking of your family during this sad time.

So sorry to learn of Mrs. Sumner. I will never forget her and Dr. Sumner. They were always so kind.

Over the years, Billie provided me with so many laughs, kind actions, and cherished memories, as a dear friend. She was loved by many, and will be missed. Peace and love to Billie's family and countless friends.

I have so many, many Billie stories. If any of you would like to call or email me I would love to share them. I met Billie when I first came to Charleston in 1975. We met in Virginia Fouche Bolton's Watercolor class and were instant friends. She was a kindred spirit and became a permanent part of my life's landscape.
My favorite story that captures Billie's spirit and personality is in the Spring of 1976 when I was exhibiting next to her on the fence of the graveyard across from St. Phillip's church in Charleston. She had just told me that her dentist would be by later to choose a painting to trade for his services. (Wow, I thought!). Billie was talking to another customer when a couple approached and stopped in front of my paintings. As I was walking toward them, I heard the woman say what if I do not want any of her paintings? Are we still obligated? Uh oh, I though- the dentist! I walked them over to Billie and she turned that special focus on them, led by her lovely smile and engaging chuckle. An hour later, when they left, the dentist and his wife had not only chosen the painting for trade but had purchased 2 more and commissioned another. I was and still am in awe.
I loved her dearly. This part of my heart will always be hers.

Our home is graced by her paintings, blessed by her memory. She is loved forever.

Rest In Peace my dear friend and mentor.

Mamaw,
You are one of a kind. You were the best grandmother, mother and friend. I cannot imagine life without yet. it is going to be a long journey. I will always love you! you're with papaw now, and thats my only solitude.