Howard Dean Sumner   July 30, 1936- February 28, 2024

In solemn remembrance of Master Sergeant Howard D. Sumner, USMC retired, aged 87 years of Hugo, Oklahoma, we gather to honor a life of unwavering dedication and service to his nation in which he left an enduring mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

From humble roots, Howard was born July 30, 1936 in Non, Oklahoma to Lois Tollett and Sandford Sumner. He grew up in Hughes County then later moved to Turlock, California with his father. After high school Howard joined the United States Marine Corps in 1954 with his cousin, Bobby Joe Tollett. He received his basic training in San Diego. He married Sarah Merline "Merl" Lane on June 10, 1961 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Howard, his beloved Merl and their cherished children, Ronda, Kathy and Eddie shared in the joys and challenges of military life. They enjoyed multiple duty stations around the country including, Hawaii, New Jersey, North Carolina and California. Howard served in Japan and his courage and dedication shone brightest in Vietnam 1970-1971. He faithfully served his country until his retirement in 1975 at the rank of Master Sergeant.

After retirement Howard and Merl enjoyed many years in Orange County, California. They delighted in hosting gatherings and embracing the joys of grandparenthood. Their California chapter was brimming with cherished memories and tales of laughter shared with family and friends.

A chapter turned, and Howard and Merl embarked on a new adventure moving to Holdenville, OK. They built their home with family support and love. During this time Howard was able to reconnect with many relatives in Hughes County and spend time with his mother.

Life's journey bore witness to both joy and sorrow, none more profound than the loss of their daughter and grandson. Seeking change, Howard and Merl started anew in Las Vegas. They enjoyed their time for many years, and you could often find Howard at the poker table or at the sports book while Merl could be found at the penny slots or doing yard work with Aaron. Once Allison was tucked into college, they decided they would return to Oklahoma and would settle into their final retirement home in Hugo in 2000.

Howard continued his life of service as commander at VFW Post 8316 where he became a staple in the Hugo community. Every week you could find Howard at the VFW enjoying BINGO with his good friends and community. While he started off as a BINGO card seller and banker you would most often find him in the later years as a player during early birds.

Howard and Merl remained active and traveled frequently cross-country using Las Vegas as a meeting spot with family and friends. While in the last years Howard's travels became less frequent, he would always make sure to attend as many important life events as possible. Through the ebbs and flows of life, Howard remained a pillar of strength and support for his family.

In their final retirement years, Kathy came to live in Hugo to provide support and love. She worked tirelessly to care for Merl in her final months and continued to help care for and support Howard until he passed.

As we bid farewell to Howard, we remember not only a decorated Marine and devoted husband, but a beloved father, grandfather, uncle and friend.

Howard Sumner was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Sarah Merline "Merl" Sumner (Lane), daughter Ronda Lee Davila (Craig), son Edward Ray Craig, grandson Wayne Howard Gillespie, grandson David Eugene Craig.

He is survived by his daughter, Katherine Craig of Hugo, OK, granddaughter Allison (Davila) Johnson and Clinton Johnson of Edmond, OK, grandson Aaron Craig and Nikole Craig of Oceanside, CA, and grandson Bruce Johnston of La Habra, CA along with great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Howard's memory lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. In honoring Howard's life, let us be inspired to embrace each day with the same courage, commitment, and compassion that defined his remarkable journey.

Graveside services were held and Howard was laid to rest at Non Cemetery in Non, Oklahoma at 1:00pm on Saturday, March 9, 2024, with Mr. Claude Sumner officiating.