Vera Craig Sumner

Vera Viola Craig Sumner, a beloved matriarch, peacefully departed this world into her Heavenly home on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the wonderful age of 99, surrounded by the love of her family and friends at Brookdale Memory Care. Born on February 12, 1925, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to John William Craig and Mary Catherine Wells Craig, she embraced life with warmth and kindness. She grew up in Montello, Nevada and graduated from Montello High School. Vera was the only one out of her siblings to graduate from high school. This was an accomplishment she was very proud of. 

 Vera’s first job was working for Southern Pacific Railroad in Montello, Nevada where she met the love of her life, CPL Albert J. Williams, with the USAAC. Vera was united in marriage to Albert J. Williams and moved to his hometown of Haw River, North Carolina. They had three boys and raised them together until his passing in 1965. Vera later found love again with Alfred “Pat” Sumner, Jr., who predeceased her in 2011. Together, they created a legacy of love that will be cherished by all who knew them. 

 A dedicated professional, Vera found fulfillment in her work with Western Electric before transitioning to a life filled with hobbies that brought her immense joy. She had a passion for reading, gardening, crocheting, cross stitching, sewing and delighted in playing cards. Her earlier years were filled with treasured moments spent in her Bridge Club and the Tops Club. Adventure beckoned her spirit, and she loved to travel with family, one of her happiest memories was visiting Ireland and kissing the Blarney Stone and traveling out West to visit her family. Her most prized possession in life were her three boys and her grandchildren. She loved her family and everyone gathering and being together. She was a member of the Haw River Christian Church. 

 Vera’s legacy continues through her loving family. She is survived by her children, Phillip L. Williams and wife Jaqe, Dennis R. Williams and wife Patience and Dr. T. Craig Williams and wife Cindy; stepchildren, Vickie Brown and husband Harold and Joseph “Joe” Sumner and wife Brenda; granddaughters, Brandi Patterson and husband Keith and Ashley Williams; as well as great-grandchildren, Alden Patterson and fiancé, Katey Beckom and Analeigh Patterson; a great-great granddaughter, Adley Patterson; sister-in-law, Frances Sumner; and several cherished nieces and nephews. 

Vera’s journey was graced by those who preceded her, including her beloved parents, her first husband Albert, her second husband Pat, her sisters Edna Van Reed, Neva Mato and Frances McClendon, her brothers Glenn Craig and Raymond Craig and her dear canine companion, Ginger. 

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff and nurses at Brookdale Memory Care, as well as the devoted Hospice nurses whose care lovingly surrounded Vera during her time of need. 

To honor the beautiful life of Vera Sumner, a cryptside service will be held at 12:00pm, January 30, 2025, at Alamance Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family invites all who knew and loved Vera to join them in celebrating her remarkable journey.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to AuthoraCare, 914 Chapel Hill Road, Burlington, NC 27215. 

Vera's spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, reminding us all of the importance of love, family and unwavering kindness. You may send condolences to www.lowefuneralhome.com