Mary Alice Carver

Mary Alice Summerford Carver died peacefully on Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Lutz, Florida at the age of 88. She is survived by her only daughter, Leissa Ann Carver of Wesley Chapel, Florida. She is preceded in death by her parents, Myrtle & Leon Summerford, sister, Freida May London, and brothers, Clyde B. London and Al Summerford.

She began her career as a clerk with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), at the Ocala Jai Alai Fronton. She retired in 2005 as Chief Inspector at the historical Derby Lane Greyhound Track. After her retirement, Mary joined a needlecraft group crocheting lap rugs for veterans and neonatal hats for newborns. She was active in the African Violets Society at both the local and state levels.

She took on many challenges throughout her life. She flipped houses with her husband in the late 50’s. In the early 70’s, she took on the baby animal nursery at the Florida State Fair. She served as PTA president at Lutz Elementary. In her 50’s, she learned DBPR’s new computer system (no on-site IT support or helpline) and became a “go-to” resource for other chief inspectors across the state.

Mary’s family and friends remember her as a spitfire well ahead of her time. She was a strong, spirited, independent woman who encouraged family, friends, and others to do their best each day, every day. “No one will do it for you so get up and get to it!” She could become your friend in five minutes and there are many who became her “adopted” children learning from her example and benefiting from her wisdom. Her warm, bright light will be missed.

The graveside service is scheduled for 11am on Thursday, October 23rd at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 W. Brandon Blvd, Brandon FL 33511. Condolences can be sent to hillsboromemorial.com The family would like to thank the caregivers and medical staff of Tampa Lakes Health & Rehabilitation and AccentCare Hospice for their attention and dedication.