John Jacob Summers was born on January 20, 1934, in Bristol, Florida to John Ray Summers and Tina Palmer Summers. He passed away on April 10, 2025. He was known as “Tubby” to many of his friends and family. He graduated from Liberty County High School and Florida State University before entering the US Air Force. He served honorably for 20 years and achieved the rank of Major. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War where he flew 179 reconnaissance missions. He earned the high honor of receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and Silver Star, both of which are given for valor and bravery in combat. He additionally was awarded 12 air medals and the Vietnam Air Operations Medal, among others.
After retiring from the Air Force, he earned his Masters and Doctorate degrees from FSU. He was a teacher in Liberty and Calhoun County for over 20 years before taking his second retirement.
John married the love of his life, Mary Clair Dennison, on July 29, 1972. They were married for 31 years before her passing in 2003. He lovingly dedicated himself to caring for her during her long illness.
John was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved being in the forests and rivers of Liberty County. He loved working in his wood shop and gunsmithing. He was a loyal member of the VFW, Lions Club, and Quiet Birdmen. He enjoyed spending time with friends at their many fish frys and exchanging stories around the “Liars Table” at the Apalachee restaurant. He was the loving patriarch and strong foundation for his wife, children, and grandchildren.
John is survived by his 5 children: Daphne Summers of Jacksonville Beach FL, Andrea Plagge (Jack) of Crawfordville FL, Stuart Summers (Annie) of Overstreet FL, Sheri Bateman (Stephen) of Landrum SC, and Clair McCaskill (Matt) of Cairo GA. He is survived by 9 grandchildren: Chad Greene of Maryville TN, Aleyda Plagge of Graham NC, Christopher Summers of Vejle Denmark, Amber Rodriguez of Early TX, Hayden Bateman of Landrum SC, Meredith Bateman of Athol ID, Josh McCaskill of Cairo GA, Abby McCaskill of Cairo GA, and Mason McCaskill of Cairo GA. He also had 6 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and sister, Rae Palmer Shuler.
The service will be Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 4:00 PM, at Bristol Christian Church. Interment will follow at Eureka Cemetery in Orange, Florida, with full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Bristol Christian Church.
Charles McClellan Funeral Home, Quincy, FL., is in charge of arrangements.
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