Richard Lee Sumner was born in Houston, Texas on May 25, 1940. He entered Heaven’s Gates on September 30, 2019, after battling lung cancer. He was loved by all and enjoyed life to the fullest, but we weren’t ready to see him go. On June 6, 1989 he married his “Current Wife” Sharlot in Silverton, Colorado. For the next 30 years they enjoyed spending their lives together working, raising children, spending time spoiling grandbabies and going to baseball games. His days were spent being surrounded by loved ones, including his fur baby Izzy, going out to his favorite restaurants and reminiscing about his old police “war” stories. He loved going 4 wheeling in the Colorado Mountains and enjoying retirement life on many “Sea Cruises.”
He is survived by his wife, Sharlot Sumner, and his children: Kristin and her husband, Aaron McDonald Sr.; Katie and her husband, Daniel Salinas; Georgia and her husband, Clayton Bownds; and Richard Sumner Jr. He is also survived by his three grandchildren: Aaron “Paco” Jr., Madisyn, and Abigayle McDonald; As well as his fur babies: Izzy and Max. His brothers: Charles Sumner Sr.; Morbeck and his wife, Johanna Sumner; George and his wife, Mary Sumner. Brother in-law and sister in-law: Doug and Sue Howton; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He joined the Houston Police Academy on September 3, 1962 Class #26. During his career he was assigned to Central Division, North Shepherd Division and Northwest Division in patrol and the Divisional Tactical Unit. He retired on January 29, 1993 after serving 30 years. He was a life time member of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCLEOSE), Houston Police Officers Association and the Houston Police Retired Officer’s Association. He was awarded numerous commendations from supervisors and civilians. It was an honor for him to proudly wear that uniform and stand amongst his brothers and sisters in blue.
Preceded in death by his Mother, Vera Vogt Sumner; Sister, Joan Fain and her husband Bill; Sister-in-law, Camille Sumner; and his cherished fur babies, Munch, Lucy, and Chloe.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to St Jude’s Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston SPCA or any charity of your choice.
