Dorothy Elizabeth Turner Summers, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, at her home in Harmony, North Carolina. Born on September 4, 1930, in Statesville, North Carolina, Dorothy lived a life of faith, service, and devotion to God, her family, church and community. Dorothy was the daughter of the late Haywood and Beulah Turner. She grew up in Iredell County and received her education through the public school system, attending Unity Elementary and Unity High School. Her formative years were marked by a strong foundation in faith as she received her early Christian education at Pleasant Grove Presbyterian Church in Statesville, North Carolina. After meeting the love of her life, William Wright Summers, at Unity High School, they were married on August 6, 1949, and were blessed with five children.
She became an active disciple at First Baptist Church in Harmony, North Carolina, where she served as a Deaconess, “Mother of the Church”, President of the Missionary Society and Choir Member. Dorothy’s dedication to her church extended beyond its walls; she was recognized for her contributions to the Mountain and Catawba Missionary Baptist Association, the N.C. State Missionary Baptist Association and Poplar Springs Baptist Church Vocal Choir. She was a gifted homemaker, cook, and an avid basketball fan; especially for the N.C. Tarheels. Dorothy created a warm and welcoming home for her family and all who entered it. She shared her talents generously with others through her service in various church choirs, the Unity High School Alumni Committee, the First Baptist Church Willing Workers Senior’s Ministry, and other ministries and community activities. She was employed by North Carolina National Bank and Rosewood Rest Home.
Dorothy leaves to cherish the memories of her life a devoted husband of 76 years, William Wright Summers; her children: Gerald Ritchie Summers (Lysa), Mae Frances Summers (daughter-in-law), Crystal Summers Thomas, William Alan Summers (Melissa), Michael Summers (Patrice). In addition to their children, Dorothy and William raised two of their grandchildren; Latisha Summers and Stephen Darnell Summers (Antinetta). She is survived by thirteen additional grandchildren: Rick Lazenby, Travis Summers, Tracee Miller, Gerri Summers, Kimberly Wasson, Rodney Turner, Sheldon Sloan, Tanika Thomas, Sharika Summers, Maisha Summers, Myisha Hoyle, Justin McCombs and Joshua McCombs. A host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her son and daughter-in-law; Stephen Ronald Summers and Mary Franklin (Frankie) Summers, her siblings; Hurley Morgan, Alfred Morgan, Nathaniel Morgan, Allen Turner, Thelma Pearson, Margaret Turner, and Rosie Chambers.
Dorothy’s legacy is one of love, faithfulness, and service. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. May those who mourn find comfort in remembering the joy she brought into their lives.
Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church in Harmony, North Carolina on Friday, July 24, 2026. Family visitation will be from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. and the service will begin at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Naren and Staff; Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County; Hospice Nurse - Jodi Belcher; Social Worker - Sarah Tesar; Caregiver - Celia Lujan; Caregiver - Patricia King; and to the First Baptist Church and Poplar Springs Church Families.
We are also most grateful for family and friends who have been so kind to share their time through phone calls, visits, preparing meals and more importantly your prayers. May God continue to bless each of you.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com
Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to serve Mrs. Summers and her family.
