Travis Funeral Chapel

William Brite Summers, age 91 of La Plata, Missouri, passed away Thursday, September 6, 2012 at the La Plata Nursing Home in La Plata, Missouri.

Born September 15, 1920 in DeNova, Colorado, he was the son of John Brite and Ethel Melissa (Cunningham) Summers. On July 19, 1944 in Allerton, Iowa he married Opal Irene Watson who preceded him in death on June 4, 2012.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; one infant daughter, Rita Kay Summers; and two sisters, Letha Beavers and Wilma Harkins.

Surviving are two sons, Richard Summers and wife Marcella of Sedalia, Missouri and Billy Summers of La Plata; five grandchildren, Carolyn Summers, Amanda Summers, Shawn Summers, Richelle Reid, and Daniel Summers; six great grandchildren, Nathaniel Summers, Adrian Summers, Wesley Summers, Piper Reid, Claire Summers, and Ella Summers; and several nieces and nephews.

William lived most of his life in Mercer County. He was a 1938 graduate of Mercer High School. From 1942 to 1946 he served in the United States Army. For many years he was employed by MODOT retiring as supervisor of the Mercer shed. In 1992 he moved to La Plata, Missouri where he was a member of the La Plata Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Mercer American Legion Post #477. William enjoyed camping and spending time with his family.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 8, 2012 at the La Plata Baptist Church. Officiating will be Pastor Elmer “Mac” McCully.

Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 8, 2012 at the Early Cemetery in Mercer, Missouri. Pallbearers will be Shawn Summers, Daniel Summers, Jamie Reid, Tom Smith, Tim Watson, and Thomas Watson.

Visitation will be Friday, September 7, 2012 with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Travis Funeral Chapel in La Plata, Missouri.

Memorials in memory of William Brite Summers may be made to the La Plata Baptist Church. They may be sent to or left at Travis Funeral Chapel, 125 S. Church St., La Plata, Missouri 63549.