Obituary: Roberta Jean Sumpter (Roberts)

For The Madera Tribune

Roberta Jean Sumpter (Roberts).

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Roberta Jean Sumpter (Roberts), age 83, of Madera, entered into God’s kingdom on Oct. 7, 2023. She was born Nov. 1, 1939.

Roberta, the most loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and loving teacher to hundreds of Madera students.

Roberta was preceded in death by her husband, Joe L. Sumpter, of 63 years and parents Melvin Rader and Sarah Elizabeth Roberts.

She is survived by her only son Gary Sumpter (wife Debra Sumpter), Grand-daughter Shannon Gambril (husband Clayton Gambril), Great Grandson Cade and Cash Gambril, her brother William (Bill) Roberts and wife Kathy Roberts and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Roberta graduated from Madera High in 1957 then attended Whittier College and finished her teaching credential at Fresno State. Mrs. Sumpter was a teacher in Madera Unified School District for more than 38 years. Starting her career at Wilson Elementary school, she then moved to the old Brenda School and finished her career at Washington Elementary in Madera. While teaching, she was able to mentor and shape the lives of young students and young teachers.

Roberta and Joe were involved on a family farm for many years in Madera. Roberta was also a member of Madera Baptist Church, Retired Teachers Association, Eastern Star, and The Babes of 57.

Visitation will be Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Jay Chapel in Madera. Funeral services will be Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Jay Chapel.

Interment to follow at Arbor Vitae Cemetery in Madera.

Remembrance may be made to Madera Baptist Church Building Fund, 1264 S. Golden State Blvd., Madera, CA 93637, or Hines Hospice.