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Submitted: 11/24/14 • Approved: 11/24/14 • Last Updated: 11/27/14 • R1053343-G0-S3
Jan 1, 1945 - Apr 23, 2013
Obituary
Richard David Sumpter, 68, of Heber Springs, Ark., died Tuesday, April 23, 2013, in Little Rock, Ark.
Born January 1, 1945, in Parkin, Ark., to Helen and Derwood Sumpter.
He earned bachelor's and master's degrees from Arkansas State University and a PhD from George Peabody College for Teachers (Vanderbilt University) in education. He graduated from Earle High School 1963. He retired from the University of Central Arkansas where he served as a professor for many years. Before then, he had taught in the public school systems in Heber Springs; Mountain Home, Ark.; and Canadian, Tex.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother; one brother, Lynn; and one brother-in-law, J.E. Stark.
Sumpter is survived by his three children, Lana of Memphis, Tenn., Reggie (Angela) of Atlanta, Ga., Casey of the home, and two grandchildren, Noah and Leo of Atlanta, Ga. He is also survived by siblings Aubrey (Patricia), Jonesboro, Ark.; Anne (J.E.), Heber Springs, Ark.; Terry (Brenda), Jonesboro, Ark.; Roger (Delores), West Memphis, Ark., one sister-in-law, Marsha, Fort Worth, Tex.; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends; Crystal Kyzer Sumpter, mother of Casey; friend, Robin Tanis of Heber Springs; and Linda Saletto, mother of Reggie and Lana.
He loved teaching, being in the classroom, and he always wanted to help his students. Known for his sharp wit, funny stories, and ability to quickly make friends, he enjoyed card games and country-western dancing. He loved to work with his hands and always had a carpentry project in progress, either for himself or to help a friend. Passionate about sports since he was young (he was All-State in football), he continued a love of sports through adulthood. He often coached youth softball and baseball, ran daily, and was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Sumpter was a member of Heber Springs Baptist Church and recently learned to play to guitar.
Burial was in Heber Springs Cemetery. Arrangements were by Roller Funeral Home.
Contributed on 11/24/14 by hawkinsdonna
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Record #: 1053343