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BORN
1947
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
William Sumas Obituary
MONMOUTH BEACH - William Perry Sumas ("Tiger Boy"), 77, of Monmouth Beach, New Jersey, lost his nearly four-year battle with cancer on July 11, 2024. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on March 23, 1947, in South Orange, NJ, Billy was the proud son of Greek immigrants who came to this country for a better life and embodied the American Dream. Following in his father's footsteps, Billy joined Village Supermarkets in 1960 and served as Chairman of the Board since 2017, an achievement that culminated his life's work. He was also the longest-serving Chairman of the Board for the New Jersey Food Council from 2000-2007.
Billy was known for his zest for life, dry sense of humor, and profound and comical catchphrases. His heart was bigger than anyone could hold, and he dedicated his life to his family. His philanthropic work with various charities, his willingness to help, and his passion for politics were a testament to his character – but, his true joy in life was the love for his wife, children, and grandchildren.
He loved to play golf, look out onto the ocean, eat dessert, and root for his Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees. He was a man who appreciated life's simple pleasures and had a thoughtful and philosophical outlook on life.
Billy is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Patricia Walsh-Sumas; his children, Abbey Sumas (Joseph Melnyk), William D. Sumas (Jade Direnfeld), and Phoebe Long (Brian Long); and his cherished grandchildren, Remi and Theodore Melnyk. He is also survived by his brother, John Sumas (Nancy Sumas), and his sisters, Linda Blatt, and Patricia Anagnostis (Gregory Anagnostis).
Predeceased by his father, Perry Sumas, and his mother, Olga Sumas, Billy's kindness and disposition to making those around him feel special brought an incredible number of friendships into his life. His vivacious sense of humor, caring nature, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed.
A private family visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 4:00PM-8:00PM at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad Street, Red Bank, NJ. A public visitation will be held on Wednesday July 17, 2024 from 9:00AM-12:00PM at the Kimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Church, 20 Hillcrest Road, Holmdel, NJ. The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation hours at church. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer center, in loving memory of William Perry Sumas. http://mskcc.convio.net/goto/williamsumas
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Sumas
Sponsored by The Family.
terry r. zuckerman
October 16, 2024
While being best friends with his cousin, Nick Saitas, I first met Billy as a preteen. I remember in later years when they had a local baseball team which Billy played on, along with his cousins He was on 1st base as I recall.
I remember staying at Perry and Nick's house down the shore with Billy and the family and trying to water sky with Billy running the boat. I have a lot of good memories of Billy and his family and my deepest sympathy to John, Linda and Patricia and the rest of his family.
Cliff Kilkenny
August 11, 2024
On behalf of my father Walter Kilkenny, who passed away in 2002, I would like to send my condolences to the Sumas family. My father knew Mr. Sumas in business and always spoke highly of him. Cliff Kilkenny
Steve Benton and family
July 24, 2024
My condolences to the Sumas family for the loss of Billy. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Rest in peace Billy.
Sheila Sturn Proko
July 21, 2024
I would like to share some messages from Billy´s classmates on the Reunion committee (CHS Class of 1965) when I advised them of Billy´s passing.
He truly was a good friend to all.
Tom Bass
Very sad to hear this news. A good guy who helped to have Wakefern support the Community Health Law Project.
Hal Garwin
Sorry to hear about Billy´s passing. He was always so nice to me and admired by many.
Miriam Heyman.
So sad to hear. Another painful reminder to make every day count.
Hal Kaufman
Always kind, compassionate and a gentleman with a great sense of humor. His generosity and charitable gestures will be remembered by all. I remember stopping at the Village Shop Rite with his cousin Sue after school sometimes.
Rich Feeley
July 20, 2024
I´m sorry to hear of Billy´s passing. We spent time playing stickball and other sports while growing up in South Orange. He was a good athlete and had a great sense of humor. I´m glad I crossed paths with him in my life.
Billy always had a great work ethic, so I wasn´t surprised at his business success. He was one of life´s good guys.
My condolences to his family, co workers, and many friends.
Rest easy Billy
Bev Furze
July 19, 2024
I send my deepest sympathy for the loss of Bill. I worked for Bill, Bob and John at Village Supermarkets in Springfield. What a wonderful family to work for. I will always remember each and every one of you. Stay well.
Beverly Macdonald Furze
Tommy Schneider
July 18, 2024
When Billy came to my store we always went to lunch.Played softball together.Enjoyable times.The body dies,the soul does not.God bless the soul of Bill Sumas. tommy schneider
Denise Freese
July 17, 2024
Always a man of dignity and integrity,gave great hugs for people he Loved and Respected. I always greeted him with a Hug which he looked forward to with open arms and he knew I was gonna say Mr Bill ohh nooo! From Saturday Night Live His arms were open to a hug he looked forward to with Extended Arms the minute I came into his Presence with Love knowing he looked forward to getting a genuine hug from a family worker Friend Denise Freese, like his Father Mr Perry who always told me He Loved Me because I worked and moved before a display fell down on me in 2007 causing a Brain Hemorage and Stoke leaving the right side of my body unbalanced and having to work with a shopping cart to get around and do my job! Never gave up till Laura with no heart fired me.Sherrif sale no unemployment benefits after 25 years of service Rest in peace dear
Valerie Jackson
July 17, 2024
My deepest sympathy for the family. Bill was first class.
Michael Savignano and the Andrea Family
July 17, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sumas family. Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your family today and always.
Eileen Maciejak
July 16, 2024
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mike and Eileen Maciejak
Carol Farrell
July 16, 2024
My condolences to the entire Sumas family on the loss of Bill. Having worked in the office for 40 years I have a lot of good memories of him He is at peace now.
Patty Campanelli
July 16, 2024
My deepest sympathy to the Sumas family. Billy would always take the time to stop by the customer service desk and say Hi and would always ask how are you doing.
A true gentlemen.
Patty
Millburn S/R
Nicholas & Susan Sainato
July 16, 2024
Condolences from Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas & Susan Sainato, Morristown ShopRite. Rest In Peace Eternally
Colleen Pagano
July 16, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Sumas family
Jodi Barbato
July 16, 2024
Billy was a family friend. My sister and I babysat his kids.
Perry Lalas
July 15, 2024
My deepest condolences to the sumas family. Johnny,Linda and Patty and families. Perry Lalas
Mark Feeley
July 15, 2024
Very sad to hear of Bill´s passing. I had the luck to play for Village Market in Little League, and be boyhood friends with "Billy". My condolences to the Sumas families, and may you find some joy in your remembrances of him.
Mark Feeley
Denise Beruta
July 15, 2024
My husband Mike Beruta worked for Shop Rite from the time he was 17 yrs old until he retired at 62. He was very dedicated and loved the Sumas family. He appreciated the opportunity he was given by the incredible Family. God bless the whole family. Denise Beruta
Tom Love
July 15, 2024
This comes as a complete surprise. I had no idea Billy was sick. All I can say he always was a gentleman to me and friendly. I used to love talking sports with his son at the Bernardsville ShopRite. My heartfelt condolences go out to the immediate family and the entire Sumas family. May Bill Sumas rest in peace in God´s kingdom.
Dom Lorusso
July 15, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Sumas family in this time of sorrow. Pat and Dom Lorusso
kathleen oneill
July 15, 2024
I was so sorry to hear about Billy's passing. He was always so nice to me and a true gentleman. I always pray about important things. And this is one. May Billy find peace and I wish comfort to all his family. Sincerely, Kathy ONeill
Denise Capriati
July 15, 2024
Rest in peace my friend. I will always treasure the wonderful memories I have. Your kindness and sense of humor and The love for your beautiful wife, Patty´ and for
your family was very special. You were blessed to be a blessing to all. You will be missed
Jackie Greco
July 15, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Billy was one of the nicest people I knew, always had a kind word or a story to tell. He will be greatly missed. May he R.I.P.
John J. Capozzi Jr.
July 15, 2024
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Sincerely, John Capozzi (JC) and Marlene Capozzi.
Shelly Perlmutter
July 14, 2024
My condolences to all of Billy´s family. I have fond memories of Billy as we were part of the 2nd generation of offspring that followed the number of original family founders of Shop-Rite/ Wakefern. Billy was always warm and welcoming as I entered the business. We enjoyed many family events and fun golf outings over the years.
He fought the tough fight.
May Bill´s memory be a blessing for his family and all who knew him.
He leaves a great legacy.
Shelly Perlmutter
James Politan
July 14, 2024
My condolences to Patty and the Sumas Family. I am sadden to hear of Billy's passing. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met and I feel honored to have known him. Rest in peace my friend.
Guy Cisternino
July 14, 2024
Bill was always a Gentleman one who cared and always willing to help. Shared many moments, conversations with Bill.
He will truly be missed. Our Prayers and condolences reach out to All of the Sumas families during this time. R I P Bill.
Guy Cisternino
Bruce Nagel
July 14, 2024
My deepest condolences to Patty and the entire Sumas family. Billy was a terrific friend , client and partner . I will always remember the fun we had on the cruise to the Greek islands. Billy was so warm and kind and we will miss him deeply.
Lenny Siswo
July 14, 2024
My most sincere condolences to the Sumas family in this most difficult time
Ted Petine
July 14, 2024
My condolences to the Sumas Family.Perry was a wonderful man.I remember when he used to buy a new Plymouth every year when i worked at Morris Avenue motors in Springfield.I knew his dad Nick and his wonderful wife.We attended the same church .May his legacy live on and may he Rest in peace.
Vincenzo Iarrusso
July 14, 2024
It was an honor to have worked for you and your family. Rest in peace.
Joe Alessi
July 14, 2024
There are not sufficient words to express the sorrow at Billy`s passing. He was one of my best friends for many years and like many I am totally devastated by his death. One of the most gentle, generous, kindest and genuine people this world will ever know. Billy you left us too soon. You will be forever missed. There is one more angel in heaven & one less angel on earth. With all my love, Joe
Dr. Ronald Frank
July 13, 2024
I was one of his physicians. More than that, we were friends. Billy had a heart of gold. He was a fighter. He fought valiantly until he couldn't fight any longer.
RIP.
Rick and Joanne Kramm
July 13, 2024
My wife and I are very sorry to hear about your loss and offer our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Sheila Sturn Proko
July 13, 2024
Condolences to the Sumas family. May the memories that you have sustain you during this difficult time.
CHS Classmate
Class of 1965
David Hapstack
July 13, 2024
He was always a gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers for you all. Bonnie and Dave Hapstack.
LEILA & JUCCA
July 13, 2024
Words can't describe how sorry i am at this loss. You're in my prayers.
I know i can't make your pain go away, but i want you to know i'm here for you
a shoulder to cray on and ear to listen with, or anything else you may need
Leila & Jucca
Roger Stone
July 13, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Sumas family. Billy will be missed. He was always a gentleman and respectful.
Vito & Susan Altieri
July 13, 2024
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Sumas family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Susan & Vito Altieri
Oscar & Jenny Marcenaro
July 13, 2024
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
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