Ara Sue Summers

CORDOVA, ALABAMA – Born October 12, 1937, to Evelyn Jean and Floyd Summers, Ara Sue Summers passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025.

She is survived by her four children: Elizabeth Leeor, Richard Riccio, Hope Riccio, and Laura Devine. Ara was also a proud grandmother to five grandchildren: Nicole Gleaton, Jennifer Riccio, Zachary Hinson, Sara Little, and Matthew Hinson, as well as four great-grandchildren: Grayson Gleaton, Mila Little, Donnell Little, and Theo Little.

Ara spent 20 years as a devoted military spouse before pursuing her dreams of earning a degree in business administration. She was hardworking, determined, and never afraid to speak her mind. Her feisty personality kept those around her on their toes.

She loved classical music, poetry, and Broadway musicals. After retiring, Ara fulfilled a lifelong dream of teaching by working as a paraprofessional for Virginia Beach Public Schools.

Ara was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts, Laskin Road Chapel.

The family asks that Ara’s memory be honored by performing an act of kindness for a friend or stranger.