Mrs. Eliza Victoria Sumter , daughter of the late Ezekiel and Annie Middleton, was born on September 17, 1940, in Summerville, South Carolina.

Victoria was educated in the public schools of Dorchester County and graduated from Alston High School in 1958.  She went on to further her education at Roper School of Nursing, where she earned her degree in Nursing. She worked in the Dorchester County Hospital, Live Oak Village of Coastal Center and then moved to the main campus of Coastal Center.

Victoria was a lifelong member of St. Luke AME Church and was active in various capacities including Choir, Usher Board, Sunday School, Missionary Society and Class Leader.  Victoria loved God and her church and was always available to do whatever the church needed.  She was a devoted and faithful member.  During her time of illness, she leaned heavily on the Lord, calling upon Him to help her bear the pain when many times she could have called upon her loved ones but refused to do so as she never complained.

On July 27, 1968, she was joined in Holy Matrimony to the late Reverend Wendell W. Sumter.   This union was blessed with two daughters Mary and Angelia. Victoria was a devoted wife and mother who always put the interests of her family first.  She supported her husband in his ministry across two parishes of the United Methodist church and made fond memories and loving relationships with congregants of both parishes. Victoria saw to it that her children were given the best she could provide in loving care, spiritual nourishment, guidance and other comforts.

She became a member of New Eden Chapter Number 204, Order of the Eastern Star PHA Jurisdiction of South Carolina in 1975.  She served faithfully and consistently for almost 50 years.

She will be forever cherished in the memory of her children, Mary Ruth Sumter and Angelia S. Glover (AJ), her grandson Alex Glover, grand dogs Shuri Glover and Matilda Sumter, her dear devoted sister Altowease Simmons (William d), and brother Oliver Spoon Middleton (Barbara d), nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.  Preceding her in death were her loving husband Reverend Wendell W. Sumter, Brother Leroy Middleton, Sister Angelus Barcus (Leroy d), and  grand dog Maxx Sumter.

She enjoyed fishing, gardening, and helping others in any way she could.  She will ever be remembered as a loving and supportive family member.  Caring for others was not only her occupation but also what she continued to do after retirement for family members including her mother, husband and sister.

A life lived as Eliza Victoria Sumter will not die,  but will live on in the hearts, memories and ideals of all those who knew and loved her.

On behalf of the family, we encourage you to share your personal experiences and preserve the memory of Ms. Eliza Victoria Sumter for future generations to come.