William R. Summer

William R. Summer, 85, of Aiken, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Born on November 13, 1940, in Newberry, South Carolina, he was the son of the late William and Sara Swittenberg Summer. He was a graduate of St. John’s High School in Darlington, South Carolina. He attended and graduated from Newberry College before earning his Master’s degree in Education from Appalachian State University.

Mr. Summer dedicated over 30 years to a career in education. He began as a math teacher at Holly Hill High School, where he also made a lasting impact as a coach, leading the girls’ basketball team to a state championship, while also serving as an assistant football coach and baseball coach. He later became the principal of Holly Hill Elementary School. In 1972, he moved to Aiken, where he served as principal of Pinecrest Elementary School and later J.D. Lever Elementary School, from which he retired in 1993. Even in retirement, his passion for education continued as he taught adult education for several years.

Outside of his professional life, Mr. Summer was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed riding motorcycles and ATVs. He loved playing tennis and spending time hiking and walking.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Patsy Boyette Summer; daughters, Anne Summer Hust (Chuck) and Patricia Anne Summer; grandchildren, Kristy Cansler (Hans), Robby Holsenback (Patti), Jonathan Holsenback (Erin), Summer Ludwick (DJ), and Madison O’Banion (Sebastian); his sister, Caroline Van Sise (Ron); and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Summer.

A graveside service for Mr. Summer will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Rosemont Cemetery, officiated by his close friend, James "Jim" Hall. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, is assisting the family.

The family would like to thank DayBreak Adult Care Services - Aiken and Crescent Hospice for the love and care they have shown Mr. Summer and his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to the Aiken County Animal Shelter, 333 Wire Rd, Aiken, SC 29801, or the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, 199 Willow Run Road, Aiken, SC 29801.