Wayne P. Sumner

Wayne Paul Sumner, 81, of Palatka, passed from this life on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at his home following an extended illness. 
Born in Raiford, he was a lifelong resident of Palatka and a 1962 graduate of Palatka High School.  Years ago, he worked at several area businesses including J.C. Penney's, Belk's and Sherwin Williams Paint Co. He likewise worked with his father, Winton Sumner, building custom homes in Putnam County. When his father retired from building, Wayne embarked on a career with the Putnam County School District. He began teaching carpentry at Palatka High School for 9 years and then became the Coordinator of Maintenance for the Putnam County School District for 11 years and ended his career with the District as Director of Purchasing, retiring in 2008. 
Wayne was also involved in the community over the years, having served as President of the Palatka Lions Club, worked with the Boys Scouts, served as Chairman of Relay for Life and was a faculty advisor for the VICA Club at Palatka High School.
Wayne was currently a member of Choestoe Baptist Church of Blairsville, Georgia, where he and Sandy spent part of the year and when in Palatka, he attended Christ Independent Methodist Church. In years past, he had been a deacon at Lemon Heights Baptist Church. Wayne was also a member of the NRA.
In his leisure time, Wayne enjoyed playing golf, camping, cooking for his wife and playing guitar in a band.   
He was preceded in death by his parents, Winton and Wilma Sumner; and 2 sisters, Bonnie Sumner McManus and Margaret Sumner Mattox.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sandy Campbell Sumner of Palatka; a daughter, Lari Sumner Carter (Kenneth) of Chipley; a son, Kevin Sumner (Jay) of Sanderson; a granddaughter, Katilyn Carter Swan (David); and a great-granddaughter, Caroline Lily Swan all of Yulee.
Services have not been decided at this time but will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be sent to the CJD Foundation 3634 W. Market Street, Suite 110, Akron, OH  44333.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Wayne's Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.