Walter James Sumbry, beloved son of the late Reverend Milton Lee Sumbry, Sr. and Emma Lean Sumbry, was born in Seale, Alabama on August 10, 1959.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System, including Monroe High School. While at Monroe, he was an outstanding athlete and member of the Golden Tornadoes football team. Walter was proud to be a Tornado and garnered much for his educational experiences.

A highly skilled welder and proficient sheet metal fabricator, Walter had a long and very notable career with ALCON, LRA, and Bill Miller Construction Company for over 35 years. He was a loyal, dedicated worker who labored untiringly to ensure that every task was given his utmost attention and completed with extreme care. Upon retirement, he was hailed as a very conscientious employee who never faltered in his duties and responsibilities.

Endearingly called "Wolf" by family and friends, Walter was quite possibly the best brother, companion, stepfather, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend anyone could ever hope for. He had a deep and abiding love for his family; especially his mother. Wolf laughed often, lived life to the fullest; stood ready to lend a helping hand, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed dancing, joking, and was oftentimes the life of family gatherings. The strong bonds of friendship that he developed throughout his life will forever be cherished and remembered.

On April 26, 2023, Walter transitioned from this earthly life to everlasting peace and rest. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Milton Sumbry, Jr., Willie Sumbry, and Irish Gene Sumbry.

Precious memories will forever remain with his longtime friend and companion, Tammy Thomas; stepchildren, Stephanie Thomas and Antonio Thomas; grandchild, Carmiracle Thomas; siblings, Geraldine (Lorenzo) Hampton, Chester (Sharon) Sumbry, Franklin (Angela) Sumbry, Meshia (Torrence) Lawrence, Kessha King, Eddie (Mary) Prince, and Valerie Mainer; sisters-in-law, Mary Sumbry and Ethel Sumbry; aunts and uncle, Mary James, Willie Mae Body, Mary Alice Bass, Lillie Ashford, and Willie Arthur (Jannie) Sumbry; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.