It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Grover Kent Summers on September 19, 2024, at the age of 75, after a brave battle with lymphoma.
Kent was born on April 5, 1949, in Clinton, Missouri, grew up and attended school in Calhoun, and was baptized in 1963 in Brush Creek. Kent graduated from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. He married Nancy Joy Highley on May 23, 1976. Together, they built a life in Clinton where they raised four children: Ryan (Julie), Heather Scheidt, Brady (Caroline), and Ashley Summers. He was a proud and devoted Papa to Ethan, Anne-Highley, and Caroline Summers; Brinley and Cooper Scheidt; and Clara Summers. Kent cherished every moment spent coaching his children’s sports teams and cheering on his grandkids from the sidelines.
Kent retired from the Osceola School District after 30 years of teaching junior high math and coaching basketball and volleyball. In retirement, Kent stayed busy as a high school volleyball official, among many other hobbies. Kent was known for his competitive spirit, which remained strong up until the end of his life.
Kent enjoyed fishing at Roaring River State Park, playing golf, and hunting quail. Kent’s daily routine frequently started with playing tennis or pickleball, followed by a trip to the donut shop, watching Gunsmoke reruns, a nap, then picking up his grandkids from school. An enthusiastic gardener, he took great pride in his tomato plants. He and Nancy were active members of the Clinton Christian Church.
In addition to his immediate family, Kent is survived by his sister, Joyce (Bobby) Trolinger, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who fondly remember his dry humor and sarcasm. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grover and Maude (Atwell) Summers, and his brother, Jamie.
Kent will be remembered for his gentle spirit, love of the outdoors, and unwavering devotion to his family. His calm, quiet, strong presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services were held September 26, 2024 at the Clinton Christian Church, Clinton, MO with Pastor Tim Wessley officiating. Special music included “I Don’t Need To Understand, Softly and Tenderly and When I Get Where I’m Going.” The casket bearers were Josh Highley, Tony Trolinger, Brandon Scheidt, Keith Highley, Matt Yaple, Cooper Scheidt and Ethan Summers. Owen Highley, Robert Trolinger and Mel Lampton. Interment was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Roseland, MO.
Services were under the direction of Vansant-Mills Funeral Home of Clinton, MO.
