Joseph Devon Sumner

Health challenges may have shaped Joe’s life, but faith, love, and hope defined his character, inspiring admiration and respect from those who knew him. He approached every hurdle with a grace and kindness that far exceeded his years. He was extremely accepting of everyone and honest to a fault.

Joe loved music, movies, video games, food, reading, and playing board games with family and friends. He loved learning about animals and cherished the family dog, Zelda, who was a great comfort to him throughout her life. He also loved learning about science and history, the arts, and Japanese culture. Having loved organizing his interests from a young age, Joe enjoyed creating spreadsheets to capture his research results. Deeply curious, he was always learning something new and eagerly sharing his discoveries.

Joe was an example of optimism and persistence, befriending everyone he met. During his senior year at Olympus High School, his class elected him to be the Homecoming King! He also developed close friendships with many of his home health nurses during his later years. He excelled at connecting with others, putting their concerns ahead of his own.

Joseph led an accomplished life despite his health challenges. He earned multiple gold and silver medals in bowling at the Utah Special Olympics. He also earned his Eagle Scout rank. His Eagle Project gave back to Primary Children’s Medical Center by building a mobile bookcase for patients there. Joseph completed, with High Honors, an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Visual Art and Design, with a Web Design emphasis at Salt Lake Community College. After graduating, he worked freelance, developing websites for some clients. Enjoying others' accomplishments as well, Joseph was a huge fan of the Olympics, the Utah Jazz, the former Utah Warriors rugby team, and especially the Utah Mammoth.

Joe is deeply missed by his parents, Devon and Judy Sumner; his sisters, Sarah (Roberto) Martinez and Hannah Sumner; his aunts, uncles, and cousins; his grandmother Nancy Brown; and his friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, C. Smith Sumner, Ann Spinola, and Gregory Burnard.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the LDS chapel at 13003 S 6400 W, Herriman, UT 84096. A funeral will follow at 12:00 PM. The family suggests sharing memories or condolences on the Wasatch Lawn Memorial website to honor his life and support each other. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, so that others may continue the fight he fought so bravely.

Joseph's Funeral Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/95143094206?pwd=zVr0LUYnmmPokkLUWin0auU3RbBEdT.1#success