Paul Bickett Summey

Paul Bickett Summey Arden, NC – Paul Bickett Summey, 91, passed away at the Asheville VA Community Living Center on December 5, 2010. He was born on August 1, 1919 in Forest City, NC. Mr. Summey excelled football and was the captain of the 1939 Cool Springs High School state champion team. He attended Appalachian State Teacher's College, playing guard for the Mountaineer football team, until WWII interrupted his studies. He then began a 31 year career as an Air Force pilot, flying the B-24 Liberator out of Norwich, England until he was seriously wounded over St. Lo, France in 1944. After the war he remained active in the Air Force Reserve while owning and managing the Western Auto store in Gaffney, SC. Captain Summey returned to active duty in 1952 and moved to Savannah, GA, joining the Strategic Air Command group flying B-47's. Later he flew B-52's out of Columbus, MS. His last major assignment was as a C-130 pilot in Vietnam during the 1968 Tet offensive. Lt. Col. Summey was awarded numerous decorations for valor during his career. He and his wife, Juanita, retired to Sarasota, FL in 1970 where he sold real estate until returning to North Carolina in 2006. Mr. Summey was an avid UNC fan, attending many games over the years, never losing faith that the football team would turn it around "next year". He was a good person who respected all people, and in return, he is loved and will be missed by those lucky enough to know him. He loved life and lived it fully. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Juanita; his brother, Sam, of Tryon, NC; his son, Paul II and his wife, Diane, of Asheville, NC; a granddaughter, Heather, of Chicago, IL and a grandson, Paul III, of Sembach AFB, Germany. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 11:00 am in the chapel of Padgett and King Mortuary in Forest City, NC. The Summey family would like to express their gratitude to the VA Home Based Primary Care Team, the VA Hospice Team, and all the doctors, nurses and staff at the Community Living Center- you made a difference! In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to any Veteran's organization or to a charity of one's choice. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian in Arden, NC is assisting the family.