James Junior "Summey" Summey

James Junior Summey, affectionately known as "Summey" to friends and family, was born on February 2, 1970, and entered his heavenly home on July 21, 2025.

A lifelong resident of Western North Carolina, James was a proud graduate of the Pisgah High School class of 1989. For 35 years, James worked faithfully as the shipping foreman at Milkco Dairy in Asheville, NC. Known for his quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and strong work ethic, he earned the respect of coworkers and friends alike.

James was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jimmy and Alma Phillips Summey, and his best friend, Joey Warren.

Left to cherish his memory is his greatest joy in life-his one and only daughter, Amber Summey, and his son, who came along later in life, Michael Lankford, whom James loved deeply and will continue to watch over from heaven. Ambers's mother and his forever friends, Stephanie Stanley and her husband Derrell Stanley; his best friends, Rusty Moore, Gary Stanley, Stuart Sentelle, Danny Stiles, and so many more.

James had a true passion for cars and was a proud member of the Hazelwood Car Club. He could often be found detailing his 2013 Camaro SS (Dusk Edition) or attending local cruise-ins and car shows around the area. He found joy in the simple things: a good meal, a new collectible, or a shared laugh with friends. An avid wrestling fan, James loved watching WWE and even got to attend a few live Monday Night Raw shows. He was also a collector at heart, with a growing display of Hot Wheels, WWE action figures, model cars, and a vast collection of Nike Shox tennis shoes. One of his favorite pastimes was heading to the movies-especially for a good action film. But nothing quite compared to his love of breakfast-especially biscuits and gravy. He often spoke fondly about how no one made it better than his mom or grandma, and those homemade meals remained some of his most treasured memories.

In honor of James's memory, his family asks that you remember him by sharing a kind story, a warm smile, or a helping hand with someone who needs it today-just as he so often did.

A celebration of James' life will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Clyde Church of God, 374 Thompson Cove Rd, Clyde, NC 28716. Pastor Mike Nations will be officiating.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is deeply honored to be caring for the Summey family.