William Carlton Sumner

William "Dub" Carlton Sumner, 83, of Kingsport, TN, passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

In the year 1940, in the quiet town of Dalton, Georgia, a remarkable life began. William Carlton Sumner, affectionately known as Dub, began his life's journey that would touch many people over the years with his enduring love.

Dub spent his early years in Georgia where he graduated from Gilmer High School in the town of Ellijay. Eager to serve his nation, he answered the call of duty and joined the Navy, where he was proud of his service and gave unwavering devotion to his country. His service was marked by honor and dedication, culminating in an honorable discharge in 1963.

After his military service, Dub found his way to Kingsport, Tennessee, where he would spend the rest of his days. He became an instrument analyst at the Tennessee Eastman Company, a role he filled with diligence and skill until the day he retired.

Dub's life was a testament to his passions. He had a zest for adventure that led him beneath the waves as a scuba diver and across the world as a traveler. His love for UT football was unwavering, evident in his season tickets, attendance at games, and enthusiasm while watching them play.

His nephew and niece, Billy Watts and Stephanie Gilbert, held a special place in his heart. He enjoyed spending time and many fond conversations over the years.

Dub was a kind-hearted, humble man with a stubborn streak. He was filled with endless curiosity, always tinkering around the house, crafting jewelry, and keeping himself busy piddling. "The Shack" was his escape and sanctuary, and his sport trac was his trusty companion on countless adventures. His pets were his loyal companions; he also nurtured a thriving garden of flowers.

Dub's life was enriched by his lifelong friend and partner, Walter Jackson "Buster" Watts, Jr., whose memory he held dear. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Reba Lee Sumner, brothers Harold and James Paul Sumner, sister Reba Willena Pruitt, and brother-in-law Bill Watts.

But the legacy of Dub's life lives on in the hearts of those who loved him dearly. His three loving sisters-in-law, Linda Lester and husband Jimmy, Mary Huffman and husband John, Mary Ruth Sumner; brother, Lloyd Sumner; special nephew, Billy Watts and wife Krista (child, Chance); special nieces, Stephanie Gilbert and husband Mikey (children, Kaleb and Kloe), and Nicole Godsey and husband Jake (children, Braden and Hannah), and Karen Anderson. His cherished Golden Retriever, Jack, stood faithfully by his side. A special friend, Kay Watts Light, held a special place in his heart, alongside a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will always remember him fondly.

In a final tribute to this extraordinary man, a gathering of friends and family will take place on Thursday, January 11th, at Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home, where stories of Dub's life will be shared from 6:00 pm until 7:00 pm. The funeral service will follow, with Pastor Will Shewey officiating.

On Friday, January 12th, Dub will find his eternal resting place at Washington County Memory Gardens, where military honors will be bestowed upon him by the American Legion Hammonds Post 3/Gate City 265.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Shades of Grace homeless ministry and Petworks Animal Services, two causes close to Dub's heart.

As we bid farewell to William "Dub" Carlton Sumner, let us remember a life well-lived, a man of integrity and love, whose story will be forever etched in our hearts.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family in this time of remembrance and reflection.