JD Sumter

Obituary: "I do not want a funeral. I do not want a memorial service. I do not want people walking behind me crying and carrying on. Cremate me." J. D. Sumter J.D. Sumter lived a full life and, despite struggling with diabetes, worked hard all of his life. At the time of his transition, he was enjoying the last of his retirement. He started working as a child and did not stop until his health declined in 2010. He never complained about working, always showed up early, went beyond the call of duty and took pride in his work. Most of his life, in addition to his full time job, he kept a part time job or helped others out as needed. He believed that workers should be treated fairly and paid fairly. He joined with his fellow workers on more than one occasion to strike for better pay and working conditions. For him, working and taking care of his responsibilities was a matter of principle and an indication of his self worth. Although he worked, he took time to play. He enjoyed following all sports, boating, fishing, hunting, playing pool, traveling and socializing with family and friends. In his day, he thought that he could dance as good as, if not better, than anyone else. He played baseball on small ball fields in Hopkins and Gadsden and took road trips to see World Series baseball games that were held on the east coast. He was a great cook and was sought out to help with barbeques and cookouts, especially for his homemade barbeque sauce. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea during the war. He was proud of his service and grateful for the opportunity it gave him to see a different part of the world. His community service included membership in the National Grand Lodge of F.A.A.Y. Mason in Compact, South Carolina. As a young child, he joined the Zion Benevolent Baptist Church. Over time, he attended other houses of worship including most recently the Little Zion Baptist Church. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. J.D. was born on October 28, 1931 in Hopkins, S.C. where he grew up. By all accounts he was spoiled by his great grandmother, Ellen Davis. His mother, Rosa Davis Adams and father, William Sumter, Sr. went on before him as did five brothers and four sisters. His children survive him along with fifteen brothers and sisters and a large extended family. He will be missed by them and a host of relatives and friends all of whom have many fond memories of him. We will honor his wish and adamant directive that there be no service. We will remember him and cherish the time that we had with him. Those who are so inclined may make a contribution of time, talent or funds to a disabled veteran's organization in his honor. Services: Incomplete

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