Mary Lizzie Summers

Mary Lizzie Summers, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, passed away on June 6, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on April 1, 1927, in Woodville, MS to William Martin, Sr. and Narcissus Webb Martin, she touched the lives of many with her kindness, resilience, and unwavering love and dedication to God. Her love for God was reflected in the way she lived her life and the way she unselfishly loved and cared for others.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents William Martin Sr. and Narcissus Martin, her brothers William Martin, Jr., Andrew Martin, Charles Martin, and her sisters Leola Burton, and Lucy Williams. Mary is survived by her remaining sister, Sarah Miller, who always stood by her side through thick and thin. Their bond was unbreakable, a testament to the enduring power of family love.

On November 2, 1952, Mary married Sammy Clark Sr., and together they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories until Sammy’s untimely death on December 2, 1974. Their union was blessed with three children: Sammy Clark Jr. (Wenling), Kenneth Clark (Deborah), and Linda Marie Clark. Mary’s nurturing spirit and dedication to her family left an indelible mark on each of their lives. Including on her grandchildren Marcel Clark, Ashlee Bruno, and Jeffery Magnus.

Mary’s strength and resilience shone through as she found love again and married Isaiah Summers on November 19,1981. They shared life together until Isaiah’s death on July 8, 2002.

Mary’s journey from Woodville, MS to New Orleans, LA included many occupations. Most notable was working for the Kuebel Family. Mary was an indispensable part of the Kuebel household and family. Mrs. Kuebel often referred to Mary as “Emmanuel – God with Us” because of the impact Mary had on all of their lives.

Mary’s spiritual journey was most impacted by being the “mother of the church” and a dedicated member of the 1st Hollygrove Baptist Church under the tutelage of Rev. Collins Trench, Jr. (Pastor). Mary lived her life based on often talked about knowledge she gained from messages imparted by Rev. Trench.

One of Mary’s greatest skills and favorite hobbies was her ability to crochet intricate patterns created without using pattern books. With a heart full of warmth, she crafted a tapestry of memories, leaving behind a legacy stitched with love and the comforting embrace of their crochet. She also loved to read her bible and hum songs of praise to God. Her smile was contagious and would light up any room. And She tickled herself (and others) all the time with her witty sense of humor! She was a hoot!

It would be impossible to enumerate the countless lives changed by Mary’s unwavering commitment to spreading The Word through Bible tracks and verses left on city buses to guide hearts toward the light of the Lord. It would be equally impossible to describe and mention all the many truly special bonds Mary shared with so many family members and friends. Most notable is the bond she shared especially with niece Alice Sanders and nephew Charles Washington.

Mary’s legacy lives on through the love she shared, the lessons she taught, and the precious memories she created. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Vineyard Church of New Orleans, 4340 Sal Lentini Pkwy, Kenner, LA 70065. The Memorial Visitation will be held from 9:30am to 10:30am. Memorial Service to begin at 10:30am.

As Mary would always say “We have our precious memories”. Let’s remember to cherish each other and our precious memories in her honor.

Rest in peace, Mary Lizzie Summers. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts.