Twilla Audrey Sumner

Born on January 19, 1948, Twilla Audrey Sumner was the fifth child of Clifford and Princetta Williams Sumner. Her parents preceded her in death, as did her siblings Clifford, Jr., Tommie Lee, Everett Delano, Mildred Ann Parrish, Larry, and Jerry. Consistently involved in the activities of her beloved community, Twilla was a life-long resident of Waycross (Ware County), Georgia.
Twilla accepted Christ as her Savior at an early age and was baptized at Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Waycross. A very active member, she served in many ministries of the church, including the choirs, Red Circle, and the Sunday School Convention. Recognized and encouraged in her youth for her exceptional writing and oratorical skills, Twilla soon became responsible for making the announcements during the Sunday worship services. She later placed first in a city-wide oratorical contest. She was afforded many opportunities to display her oratorical gifts. She also participated as a member of the Benson Specials, a community singing group.
A graduate of the Center High School, Class of 1966, Twilla attended Paine College in Augusta, Georgia.
Twilla's early work experience included her service as a paraprofessional at Center High School in Waycross. She relocated for a few years to Atlanta, Georgia, where she held positions at AT&T and in the Medical Records Department of Grady Memorial Hospital.
Returning to Waycross, Twilla's tenure with the Walmart Corporation began in June of 1987. Her winning smile, compassionate spirit and dedicated work ethic made her an invaluable member of the company. At Walmart (Store #556), she served in various capacities, earning positions as department manager and mentor to fellow employees. She spearheaded several store-sponsored celebrations, including the Black History Month celebration and the Walmart Georgia-Florida Game party. Twilla retired after serving Walmart and its customers for 33 years.
An avid sports fan, Twilla loved the games of tennis, football, and basketball. She enjoyed attending games and watch parties for her favorite teams. She named LeBron James as her favorite player and the Philadelphia Eagles as her favorite team.
On the evening of Thursday, July 4, 2024, Twilla Audrey Sumner departed this earthly plane and peacefully ascended to her heavenly home.
Left with cherished memories are her children: Tamea Sumner Parrish (Johnnie), and Kevin V. Sumner; her grandchildren: Faith Parrish, Jordan Parrish, Deonte Sumner, Kyliah Sumner Harold, Marquez Leggett and Hasaan Butler; and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving are her sister: Guanda Sumner Jones (Steven); nephews: John White (Thilytha), Jason Jones (Katrena), and John Sumner (Natasha); grand-nephews: Austin and Gregory Sumner; brother-in-law: John R. Parrish; aunts: Ocie Williams Slaughter and Martha Williams Silas; uncle: Alexander Williams, Sr. Also remaining are a host of cousins, extended family and friends, including her "posse:" (BFF) JoAnn Smith, Carolyn Walker, and Lorene Sharpe, a spiritual sister: Tese Pickett and her spiritual daughters Matilda Lee and Kutrina Barron.