Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Sumwalt Obituary
age 87, passed peacefully on June 9, 2020…two and a half months after the passing of the love of his life, Joann, his beautiful wife of 66 years. They met at age 6…fell in love as teenagers, married during college and remained side by side every step of the way (even dressing alike) for decades. Jim's own words to Joann on their last wedding anniversary…"I could have never made it all these years without you. I will love you forever."
Besides his love for his family, Jim was a driven perfectionist and workaholic, clearly displayed in the spectacular smiles of his numerous patients from his lifelong passion of being an orthodontist. He also had a discerning eye for architectural beauty, designing and building his own professional building, as well as constantly updating and remodeling his home. Jim's heart was enormously generous, always wanting to have a positive impact on the world…he contributed to every single charity that solicited him and was absolutely passionate about being a member of Rotary Club of Tucson. He and Joann participated every year bell ringing for The Salvation Army and selling tickets for the Classics Car Show.
In addition to all of these wonderful qualities, Jim was a loving, adoring and supportive father and grandfather. He loved his daughter immeasurably, unconditionally and always inspired her to believe in her dreams with three simple letters…PMA…Positive Mental Attitude. And, his daughter loved him back…endlessly. Jim is survived by his daughter, Stacia; his son-in-law, John and grandchildren, Colton and Camryn.
Happy Father's Day, Dad…I will miss you forever.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Sumwalt
Donna Dempsey
June 15, 2023
Beautiiful obituary Stacia. I have very fond memories of your parents.I will always remember the hugs they gave me at the Basketball games.
Mark Catanzaro
August 24, 2022
My most sincere condolences to you and your family- something you taught me 35 years ago that I remember to this day, and both your parents exemplified, treat people with love, integrity, and trust! I bet you're surprised I remember huh?
DOnna Dempsey
July 22, 2020
Dear Stacia and Family
I am deeply saddened to hear if the passing of both your wonderful parents. They will be so missed by so many.I always looked forward to their hugs and smiles at the Basketball games. Paul was also very fond of your parents.I pray your wonderful memories will help you during this difficult time. Love Donna Dempsey.
Marlene C. Skinner, RDH (Retired)
June 22, 2020
Dr. Sumwalt will be very much missed. I knew Dr. Sumwalt during the 35 years that I was employed as a Dental Hygienist. I treated many of his orthodontic patients through the years. His dedication to his dental practice was reflected in the restoration of many beautiful smiles. I will always remember him as a truly kind and gracious man.
Karen Palm
June 22, 2020
Dear Stacia & Family,
My daughter and I were patients of Dr. Sumwalt and we have enjoyed the beautiful smile he gave us many years ago. He was truly a perfectionist. It was always so nice to see your Moms smiling face in the office too. They were an amazing couple. May you find comfort in knowing they are together once again. God Bless you all as you endure this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Karen Palm
Cynthia Goodman Shaw
June 22, 2020
Dear Stacia,
Steve and I send our sincere condolences. First, for your loss of your dear, sweet gracious Mother. And, now your kind, caring and elegant Father. We always enjoyed their company at the club. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love,
Steve and Cynthia Shaw
christine ash
June 21, 2020
Stacia,
I am so sorry to learn of your father's passing. I will always remember your parents when seeing them at the U of A games with their sweet smiles and friendliness. What a wonderful story of their meeting so young and such a love story to be remembered. I know how much you will miss your Dad but may you be comforted by all the good memories that you had with him. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Crissy Ash
Adrienne R Ash
June 21, 2020
I am so saddened by this news & my heart goes out to you & your family. I know the pain that comes from losing parents & the emptiness that you feel. My wish is that you remember all the memories of the good times that you shared with them throughout your life.
With heartfelt sympathy & love,
Adrienne
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
Make a Donation
in James Sumwalt's name
Memorial Events
for James Sumwalt
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Sumwalt's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
