Leroy Summers

Leroy Summers, a devoted family man and an epitome of strength, passed away on March 11, 2024, at 8:30 PM, at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy of personal courage, commitment, and creativity.

Leroy was born on August 31, 1954, in the small town of Cairo, Illinois, to Leon and Harry Mae Summers, both of whom preceded him in death. He had five brothers—Jerry Summers and Charles Webb, both of whom preceded him in death; and those surviving, Leon Summers Jr., and Jerome and Eddie Webb—and four sisters—Shirley Webb, who preceded him in death; and those surviving, Gloria Luster, Delores Chandler, and Sharlene Webb.

Leroy is survived by his wife, Milagros; his daughter, Shandell Summers; his son, Leroy Summers Jr., and daughter-in-law, Andrea; and his son, Anthony Summers, and daughter-in-law, Dai. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Chaunsamae, Cherrahn, Kahtero, Jalen, Amare, Nia, and Maya, as well as his great-grandchildren: Jeremy, Jahmye, Jodison, Ashton, and Ivy.

Leroy displayed a passion for self-improvement from an early age, ranging from bodybuilding to Bible study.

In his late teens, Leroy boldly left behind the quietude of Cairo to pursue a life of growing spirituality in the bustling city of New York, where he studied and worked under The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, while also finding work in photographic processing. It was there that he met his first wife, the mother of his first two children, Shandell Summers and Leroy Summers Jr.

As the years passed, Leroy grew increasingly skeptical of the doctrines propagated by his church regarding the Bible. He publicly challenged their heterodox views through his writings, ultimately leading to his expulsion. Despite this, his belief in God and in the wisdom of the Bible remained throughout his life.

In 1989, Leroy married his second wife, Milagros, the mother of his youngest son, Anthony Summers. Their loving marriage lasted more than 34 years until his passing.

Leroy pursued physical fitness fervently, immersing himself in the burgeoning bodybuilding culture of his time. An avid runner, he proudly maintained an athletic stature, imparting the values of personal discipline and hard work to his children.

In addition to his dedication to physical fitness, Leroy possessed a remarkable talent for craftsmanship. Over the last few decades of his life, he meticulously designed and built beautiful landscapes around his home, from patios and gardens to handmade outdoor structures like swings and gazebos, transforming his surroundings into a haven of beauty and tranquility.

Leroy also found solace in music. Inspired by artists like Jim Croce and John Denver, he dedicated private time to mastering the guitar.

Above all, Leroy embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and self-reliance, exemplifying a life well-lived through his actions and character. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were touched by his presence.