Elmer Lynn Sumner, age 83, passed away October 16, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was born July 7, 1942, in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, to Elmer Sumner and Lottie Anna (Luton) Sumner. Elmer grew up on a cotton farm and graduated from Paoli High School in 1960. On July 16, 1965, he married the love of his life, Ruthie Lee (Wright) Sumner, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma and the two were married until her passing in April of 2018. The couple began their life together in Oklahoma City in 1966, where Elmer worked for Sears changing tires and oil. Later, they returned to Pauls Valley, where he worked as a mechanic, helped with farming and was employed at a local truck stop. Elmer also spent time driving for Mike Self in Davis, Oklahoma, and later worked for Ace Equipment. In his later years, Elmer joined Walmart, where he greeted countless customers with a friendly smile for 11 years before retiring in 2017.
Elmer loved spending time outdoors with his family—especially fishing and camping at Knoll Lake. He enjoyed cooking out and took great pride in smoking a good brisket. Above all, Elmer cherished time spent with his family and grandchildren. He taught by example that if you wanted something in life, you had to work for it. Elmer will be remembered for his hard work, warm heart, and the love he shared with his family and friends.
Elmer is survived by his sons, David Wayne Sumner of Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, and Raymond Lynn Sumner of Ardmore, Oklahoma; daughter, Cindy Foster and husband Kenneth of Pauls Valley, Oklahoma; brothers, Charlie Sumner of Durant, Oklahoma, and Billy Sumner of Paoli, Oklahoma; sister, Nancy Sims of Lindsay, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren, and a host of other friends and family.
Elmer was preceded in death by his wife, Ruthie Lee Sumner; parents, Elmer and Lottie Sumner; brother, Don Sumner and wife Joyce; and sister-in-law, Betty Sumner.
Graveside services for Elmer were Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Pauls Valley with Mike Martinez officiating. If you would like to send your condolences, you may do so at woosterfuneralhomes.com.
