Virginia Copeland Sumrall

Virginia Copeland Sumrall of Willis, Texas went to rest with her Lord Jesus Christ on July 18, 2025. She lived many years in Cloverleaf, and in the early 90s, she moved to Willis to be closer to her daughter, Cathy.

Virginia, lovingly known to many as "Granny," was a giving and selfless woman. She helped anyone in need, always offering a warm heart and a safe place to stay. I witnessed countless times when she opened her home to others, especially children, creating a space of comfort, joy, and belonging. As a little girl, I remember there always being other kids at Granny's house. We'd laugh and play, and I often wondered if she realized how many lives she impacted simply by being herself.

During holiday breaks and summers, I would beg to go and stay with Granny in Cloverleaf. Some of my earliest childhood memories include flea market trips where the "big elephant" sat outside, and games at the bingo hall, chauffeured by Uncle Lawrence. These small adventures meant everything to me.

Granny lived a simple life and found happiness in the little things-especially her dogs. We all remember that one little dog that would try to nip at your ankles the second you opened the door to leave. You had to be quick to shut the door or risk being barked at all the way out! Her spirit was gentle, but she was strong-willed and could hold her own, especially when she was negotiating for a "good deal." You didn't stand a chance if she had her mind set on something.

She experienced many heartbreaks and losses throughout her life-losing loved ones like Fat Momma, Roy, Uncle Lawrence, James, John, Beatrice, Momma, and many more. Yet through it all, Granny never stopped fighting. Even toward the very end, while receiving chemo, she remained strong. But God decided it was time to take all her pain away. Her work here was done.

As He promises us in Scripture, in the blink of an eye, He took it all away. Just like the song says, "I can only imagine."