Frances Anne Sumlin

Frances Anne Sumlin, a cherished member of her family and community, passed away peacefully at her residence on March 8, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on April 22, 1945, in Burke County, Frances dedicated over 40 years of her life to her career at Drexel Furniture Company before retiring to devote her time to her true passions: her family and her hobbies.

Frances was a woman of many talents and interests. She took great joy in working in her flowers, often finding solace and happiness in nurturing her garden. Cooking for her family was a labor of love, and her culinary creations were well-known among friends and relatives alike. Advanced in crafts, she enjoyed crocheting, quilting, and creating beautiful jewelry, activities that reflected her creative spirit. She attended the Dysartsville Baptist Church.

Frances held a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, Darla and Rocky, who brought her companionship and joy. Above all, her greatest pride lay in her family. Frances cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and her life was enriched by the love she shared with them. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Cathy Lynn Alexander, and her son, Jimmy Wayne Buckner and his wife Kimberly. Frances also leaves behind her sister, Emily Howlett, as well as grandchildren Erik Alexander and his wife Deanne, Stacy Ingram and her husband Jon, Crystal Plemmons and her husband Brad, Joshua Buckner and his wife Kennedy, Ashley Huffman and his wife Melissa, and Guy "Mikie" Huffman and his wife Holly. Additionally, she was adored by 21 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.

Frances was predeceased by her loving husband, James Everette Sumlin, her son Ricky Dean Buckner, her brother Gene Whisnant, and her devoted parents, Frank Edward Whisnant and Wilma Brooks Whisnant. Her memory will always be cherished and her influence felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A visitation will be held at Dysartsville Baptist Church in Nebo, NC, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM with Rev. John Cope officiating. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor and celebrate the life of Frances Anne Sumlin, a remarkable woman whose spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved. Interment will follow at the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Dysartsville Baptist Church 24 Club House Rd. Nebo NC 28761.