Martha Emma Gunn Sumrall, 98, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at her home in Gainesville, Georgia, just three and a half weeks shy of her 99th birthday.Martha was born on May 4, 1927, in Mobile, Alabama, to John and Marie Gunn.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Richard and James (Jim) Gunn; her beloved husband of 54 years, William M. “Bill” Sumrall; her son, Gene Sumrall; her grandson, Michael Rosser; and her granddaughter, Elisha Sumrall.
A devoted follower of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Martha lived a life that beautifully reflected her faith. Her favorite Scripture, Psalm 19:14 — “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer”— was not only a verse she cherished, but one she faithfully lived out each day. For over seven years, she shared Scripture every morning on Facebook, encouraging all who read her words. Even when she was no longer able to attend church in person, she remained steadfast, faithfully joining her Sunday School class and worship services online.
Martha was a longtime and active member of Dauphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, where she faithfully served for decades. Her commitment to teaching Sunday School spanned more than 70 years, beginning at just 17 years old—a testament to her deep love for God’s Word and her desire to invest in others.
She was known for her kind and compassionate spirit, her cheerful countenance, and her radiant, contagious smile. Martha had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and deeply loved. Her wisdom, gained over nearly a century of life, flowed freely in her conversations, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Martha and her husband Bill shared a beautiful, blended family of six children: Janie B. Johnson (Doug), Elaine Drury (Bill), David Holland (Debbie), Gene Sumrall (Michelle), Linda Wigley, and Robert Sumrall (Brenda). She was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always taking a sincere interest in the lives of her family members, no matter their age. Her legacy lives on through her 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson with another one due in July.
She dedicated 30 years of service working at Brookley Field Air Force Base in Mobile, Alabama, and later at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Outside of her work, Martha found joy in quilting, sewing, gardening, and reading. She was also known for her delicious peanut brittle and chocolate crinkle cookies, lovingly prepared for her family each Christmas.
Martha’s joyful attitude and attentive spirit made her a blessing to be around. She often shared simple but powerful truths such as, “Trust in the Lord day by day,” “He knows I’m ready,” and “Thank you, Lord, for another day.” She loved spending time with her family, especially playing games, where she proudly held the title of reigning Domino champion.
Above all, Martha will be remembered for her unwavering love for the Lord, her deep devotion to Scripture, and her enduring love for her family. Her life was a testimony of faith, joy, and grace—an example to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Radney Funeral Home, 1200 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, Alabama, with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Saraland, Alabama.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
