Sumner H. Smith, Esq. of Peabody and formerly of Lynn, passed away peacefully at Aviv Center for Living in Peabody on Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at age 91.
Sumner was born on August 28, 1923 in Everett, one of two children of the late Hyman and Sarah Smith.He was raised in Everett, graduated from Everett High School, and later served his country honorably during WWII in the US Army. Following his discharge, he worked for several years before entering Suffolk University where he received a Bachelor's and Juris Doctor degree.Sumner settled in Lynn with his young family and worked as a local Lynn Attorney for over 60 years.
Sumner was a successful attorney and well known criminal defense lawyer in the City of Lynn. His practice helped hundreds of clients with civil matters, and defended many criminal cases with a high degree of success. His passion was working in court for the benefit of his clients.Through his work in many civil and criminal cases, he was well regarded and respected among his clients and peers.After 60 years serving the local area, he retired but continued providing legal advice to his friends and neighbors for several more years.
He enjoyed his free time by staying active, and taking care of his body. He regularly played sports, including tennis and racquetball with his friends and family. He also found great joy in getting outside and riding his bike along the Lynn beaches. For much of his life, he practiced kosher eating habits, careful to avoid any processed food.His other main interests in life included collecting model trains, and cheering on the Boston sports teams. A generous man with a kind heart, Sumner sought out charities and organizations near and far to support.
Sumner was a loving husband to Rosalyn, a supportive and present father, and caring grandfather. He was always concerned with the well being of his grandchildren, and regularly checked on their educational progress. One of his favorite games was to quiz his four grandchildren with difficult words to spell, or he would ask them to read aloud the newspaper to everyone in the room. All with the goal of helping further their development and success in school and life.He will be lovingly remembered and his contributions to his family, and community will not be forgotten.
He was the beloved husband of Rosalyn B. "Roz" Smith with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Devoted father of Stuart B. Smith and his wife Diane of Bradford.Dear brother of the late Alice Goldman. Cherished grandfather Tiffany Santarelli and her husband Carmine, Jeremy Smith and his wife Kerry, Shani Smith, and Ashley Smith. Loving great-grandfather of Sarah and Emma Smith.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor and remembrance of Sumner's life for his Graveside Service at Vilkomir Cemetery, Broadway, Melrose on Thursday, May 21 at 2pm.Services will conclude with military honors by the US Army.