John Steve Sumner, 65, of Gloucester, died on Dec. 4, 2012 at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.

John was born in Ohio, but grew up in the mountains of Virginia. He retired after 20 years in aviation from the U.S. Army and also retired from the Gloucester County Public School System after 20 years. While serving in the Army John received the Army Commendation Medal for his meritorious service.

John was a loving husband, wonderful father, and Papa whose passion was helping children, military veterans, and he was always happiest when he was at his home with his family and his pet cats.

He loved his flannel shirts, country music, and his favorite teams Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates. He always had a smile and an accepting way, giving all a sense of confidence and the feeling of his “loving hand.” He will be missed so much by everyone.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Valissa Kay Sumner; both of his parents, Howard and Althea Sumner, and two brothers, Paul and Buford Sumner, both Army veterans.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Theresa A. Sumner; three daughters, Tilenna Lea and husband Tony, Tanya Sawyer and husband Steve, Paulette Lawrence and husband Jason; three grandchildren, Steven, Alorah and Grace Noel; two sisters, Evelyn Gilbert and Angie Murphy; brother, James Sumner; four nephews, Joey and Jimmy Cole, Steve and Jimmy Gilbert, and one niece, Sandy Myers.

Funeral services conducted by the Rev. Daniel McKee were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. Interment with military honors followed in Rosewell Memorial Garden Cemetery. The family received friends Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family wishes to thank the staff, nurses, and doctors at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital for all the love and care they gave.

In John’s memory, contributions may be given to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.