With hearts filled with both sorrow and peace, we celebrate the beautiful life of Betty Dean Summers, who entered the presence of her Lord on August 18, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born in Carroll County on March 22, 1939, to Marion and Gladys Ellis.
A woman of unwavering faith, Betty devoted her life to loving and serving Jesus Christ. She was a faithful prayer warrior whose trust in God remained steadfast through every season of life. Her gentle spirit, humble heart, and unwavering love for the Lord were evident to all who knew her. She often reminded those around her that God’s grace is sufficient and His promises are true.
As a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, and treasured friend, Betty faithfully poured herself into the lives of others. She found great joy in caring for her family, encouraging those in need, and sharing God’s love through both her words and actions. Her home was a place of warmth, kindness, and prayer, where everyone was welcomed with open arms.
She was a faithful member of Cornerstone Faith Fellowship, where she served with joy and humility. She, along with her husband Herbert Summers, established the church and poured their heart into it. She reflected Christ’s love in countless ways, whether it was through her sewing, her food ministry or welcoming in anyone who passed by. Her life was a testimony that true greatness is found in faithfully serving God and loving others. Although her faith was strong, she sometimes shared her spunk rather it was showing off her sass or her red boots.
Though her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the assurance that she is now in the presence of her Savior and heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Her legacy of faith, compassion, and devotion to God will continue to inspire her family forever.
Betty Dean is survived by her three children, Theresa Sproles (Gib), Jeff Summers (Maegen), and Lady Nix (Bubba); two brothers, M.L. (Betty) and Max Ellis (Ann); 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Summers; her infant daughter; and three sisters, Evelyn Johnson, Dottie Martin, and Loretta McDaniel.
A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Oliver Funeral Home Chapel, with burial following at Winona Garden of Memory. Bro. Al Williamson and Bro. Jeff Hill will officiate the services. Pallbearers will be Justin Summers, Brandon “BJ” Summers, Caleb Parker, James Barry Carpenter Jr., Wilson Sproles, and Holland Ingram. Honorary pallbearers will be James Barry “Trace” Carpenter III, Colbran Ingram, and Kiker Carpenter.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 21, from 9:00 a.m. until service time at Oliver Funeral Home.
Family and friends are invited to gather to honor a woman whose life beautifully reflected the love of Christ. May we honor her memory by walking faithfully with the Lord she loved so deeply, until we meet again in His eternal presence.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at https://www.stjude.org/donate.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
Heartfelt condolences and prayers are extended to the family and friends.
Theresa, Jeff, Lady and Summers family: There are no words to say how I felt when I saw this news. I am totally devastated and my heart is overwhelmed with sadness, joy, love and many emotions. I worked for the Summers family for 18 years and each of you became a part of me. I am so sorry she has suffered so long but am grateful she is with Herbert in Heaven. There was no finer person in this world to have been my employer and a forever friend. The last time I saw her she introduced me to her friend as “One of her girls.” I was so proud and honored that she thought of me in that way. You were all a second family to me and still are. I loved Betty Dean and told her so often. I will be forever grateful for all she taught me and will never forget her. Love in Christ Betty Dean. Deborah, your friend and one of your girls! 😭💖
Theresa, Lady and family, I was so sorry to hear about Betty Dean’s passing. My heart goes out to all of you of you. She is at peace now and free of pain and with her loved ones. Prayers. Ms Mamie
My prayers are with you and your family.
Lana and I are thinking of you all . Its hard to lose a mom .
David and Lana Heath
My heart is broken and at the same time so thankful she is home as her Savior promised ‼️🩷 So thankful I got to see her and pray for her
Praying for her family🙏
Loved Betty she was quite a wonderful inspiration of caring for others. She dedicated her life to her family and the Lord. Always worked hard. She was well taken care of and is at peace. Sorry to hear.