Debra Jo Sumner

Debra Jo Sumner, age 68, passed away on August 2, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born on March 7, 1957, in Garden City, Kansas, and spent her formative years in Elk City, Kansas, where she received her formal education.

Debra married Steven Benson, and later Gary Taylor—both preceding her in death. She eventually married one of her lifelong friends, Donnie Sumner, sharing a deep bond and companionship.

Debra spent many years in Independence, Kansas, where she raised her five children. Later, she made her home in Council Grove, Kansas, and worked at Council Grove Lake. She held numerous jobs throughout her life, but none more important to her than being a devoted and loving mother.

In her later years, Debra moved closer to her children in the Winfield, Kansas area, where she remained until her passing.

If there is one thing everyone should remember about Deb, it’s that she loved fiercely, befriended all, and was loyal to a fault. She had a passion for creating eclectic art pieces, collecting antiques, and spending quiet time with the Lord, often reading her Bible.

She is survived by her children Tomisha Jordan (husband Danny), Tamara Benson, and Tiffany Young (husband Mathew), and beloved sisters Billie Heape and Ricki Darnell. Her cherished grandchildren include Ivy Jamison, Colton Jordan, Grady Jordan, Cordell Jordan, Lilly Jordan, Greyson Jordan, Tyler Brown, Brayden Benson, Kendra Young, Breyana Benson, Caige Benson, Bentlee Benson, and numerous bonus grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by sons Tyler Montgomery and Trenton Benson, grandson Aaron Benson, brother Harley Davis (wife Kay), sisters Denise Bradley (husband Randy) and Jenise Davis, father Dennis Davis, and parents Bill and Mildred Barnes.

Debra will be remembered for her unwavering love, her artistic soul, and her enduring faith. Her legacy lives on through her family, her friendships, and the many lives she touched

A celebration of Debra’s life will be held on Friday, 8/22/25, at 2:00pm at Potts Funeral Chapel 122 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Independence, KS 67301.

Graveside services will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Independence.

All who knew and loved Debra are welcome to attend and celebrate her life and afterwards there will be a family visitation at the Independence Park Pavilion by the water fountain entrance.