Col. James L. Sumpter

SUMPTER, Col. James L., age 92 of Kettering, formerly of Longboat Key, FL, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Hospice of Dayton. James was a graduate of Munhall H.S. in PA, and The Pennsylvania State University, class of 1939, where he was a member of the Glee Club, University Chapel Choir, and Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Col. Sumpter served during WWII commanding the 1st Battalion, 261st Infantry, 65th Division. Decorations he was awarded include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, USSR Medal for Valor 1st Class, Combat Infantryman Badge, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Stars and the WWII Victory Medal. James was chosen the outstanding Battalion Commander in the 65th Division in combat as a result of the Legion of Merit award. James was a member of Blue Lodge #582 F&AM, AASR Valley of Pittsburgh and Syria Temple Shrine. He retired as a safety engineer from U.S. Steel Corp. He was also a member of The Church of The Redeemer in Sarasota, FL, Rotary Club, Long Boat Key Golf Club, and Bird Key Yacht Club. James was preceded in death by his first wife of 42 years, Elizabeth H. in 1983. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Mary Etta Sumpter; son, Dr. James Robert (Phyllis) Sumpter of TX; two daughters, Beverly Drury of WA and Sharon (David) Fegley of KY; four grandsons, six granddaughters and six great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Chapel and Cemetery, Pittsburgh, PA. at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45420. Arrangements by Routsong Funeral Home, Kettering Chapel. Condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family at www.routsong.com.

Funeral Home:
Kettering Routsong Funeral Home
2100 E. Stroop Rd.
Kettering, OH
US 45429

Service:
Thursday, September 17, 2009