Charles
Charles Ellsworth Sumpter
d. June 17, 2023
Charles Ellsworth Sumpter died peacefully in his beloved home on June 17, 2023, after a long and full life. He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Jane Parkinson Sumpter, who he frequently reminded in life “I’ll be loving you always”
Born on May 13, 1926 at Virginia Baptist Hospital to the Rev. E.E. and Mary Jane Sumpter, Charlie carried with him throughout his life the influence of his minister father and the importance of service to the church. His younger brother, Calvin, preceded him in death many years ago.
Charles was devoted to his family and proud of his four children and their partners, six grandchildren and their partners, and two great-grandchildren. He loved them all and said a prayer for them each night before sleep.
Charlie had a long career as supervisor of the Virginia Department of Agriculture Regional Laboratory. He was committed in his work and showed respect to all those with whom he worked. He was a servant leader.
In retirement, Charlie created a new career through volunteering and remained active in the community into his late 80’s. He especially cared for his church, Fort Hill United Methodist, Churches for Urban Ministry, Lynchburg Daily Bread, Meals on Wheels, and Interfaith Outreach Association. In 2014 the Lynchburg District of the United Methodist Church honored Charles’ service and commitment by inducting him into the Laity Wall of Fame.
Like many men of his generation, he served his country during World War II in the US Navy as a hospital corpsman.
Charlie thrived on his friendships and acquaintances. Death was always something he hoped to delay by yet another day as he enjoyed this world and the people in it. He was curious and, without fail, was happy to take the time to chat. His life was made full by the many people he knew and met.
Charles was steadfast, kind, dedicated, and humble. He was loved by many and will be missed.
Please consider memorial contributions to Fort Hill United Methodist Church, Centra Hospice, Meals on Wheels, or Daily Bread
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 17, 2023, at Fort Hill United Methodist Church.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.
Born on May 13, 1926 at Virginia Baptist Hospital to the Rev. E.E. and Mary Jane Sumpter, Charlie carried with him throughout his life the influence of his minister father and the importance of service to the church. His younger brother, Calvin, preceded him in death many years ago.
Charles was devoted to his family and proud of his four children and their partners, six grandchildren and their partners, and two great-grandchildren. He loved them all and said a prayer for them each night before sleep.
Charlie had a long career as supervisor of the Virginia Department of Agriculture Regional Laboratory. He was committed in his work and showed respect to all those with whom he worked. He was a servant leader.
In retirement, Charlie created a new career through volunteering and remained active in the community into his late 80’s. He especially cared for his church, Fort Hill United Methodist, Churches for Urban Ministry, Lynchburg Daily Bread, Meals on Wheels, and Interfaith Outreach Association. In 2014 the Lynchburg District of the United Methodist Church honored Charles’ service and commitment by inducting him into the Laity Wall of Fame.
Like many men of his generation, he served his country during World War II in the US Navy as a hospital corpsman.
Charlie thrived on his friendships and acquaintances. Death was always something he hoped to delay by yet another day as he enjoyed this world and the people in it. He was curious and, without fail, was happy to take the time to chat. His life was made full by the many people he knew and met.
Charles was steadfast, kind, dedicated, and humble. He was loved by many and will be missed.
Please consider memorial contributions to Fort Hill United Methodist Church, Centra Hospice, Meals on Wheels, or Daily Bread
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 17, 2023, at Fort Hill United Methodist Church.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Charles Ellsworth Sumpter, please visit our flower store.
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