Mary Emma Milner-Sumlin was blessed with 98 years of life. Sunrise May 14, 1924 and sunset October 15, 2022. She was one of 4 children to the late Sophie and Isaac Diggs, Sr. She was known by many as Mom, Grandma, Mrs. Milner-Sumlin and Aunt Emma.
Mary spent her younger years in Warren, Ohio before moving to Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Wilberforce University with a BS in Education specializing in Home Economics. She completed certified course work in Vocational Education from The Ohio State University. Mary served 27 years as a Vocational and Home Economics Teacher with the Columbus City School System. Within those 27 years of experience, she spent 10 of those years teaching adult night school. She served as a strong mentor and counselor to parents and students within the community and the Columbus City School System.
Mary was active with a couple organizations. She served 50+ years as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She was a charter member of Continental Societies and served as the National Amenities Chair for 10 years. She was a member of Top Ladies of Distinction. She was part of the National Council of Negro Women as well as the March of Dimes in her community. She loved being part of the Lunch Bunch. They celebrated birthdays each month. This was definitely a highlight for Mary.
Mary leaves to cherish her memories her two sons Delane and Monty Milner, 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and many close friends.
Visitation 1:00 PM and Funeral Service 2:00 PM Monday, October 24, 2022 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd).
On behalf of the entire Ohio Living team, thank you for the blessing of serving your family during this time. Our condolences on the passing of Mary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and in the days to come.
So sorry to hear of her passing. She was the oldest of Morse family first cousins. Sending prayers for comfort and support to carry you all through this difficult period. Farewell cousin. Rest in God’s arms
We are saddened to learn about your family loss.
May God comfort you through his word the Bible and the gift of prayer. Thinking of you all.
Mary Emma, I am pleased that our paths crossed through your son Delane and that we shared a beautiful baby girl your granddaughter. Times spent with you were minimal but memorable. My heart is heavy with sadness for Mona, Monty, Delane and all of your grands. Rest Mary. Love.
RIP aunt Mary Sumlin.☹️☹️ You will surely be missed.☹️☹️
To the family of Mary Sumlin we want to send out our condolences. ☹️☹️ RIP Mary Sumlin.☹️☹️
From Dorothy Wilson & Sherri Poole & Chakeitha McKever.
To the family of Mary Sumlin we want to send out our condolences.
From Dorothy Wilson & Sherri Poole & Chakeitha McKever.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember Ms. Mary from my days living in Eastgate.
Are deepest Condolences
Mona we are so very sorry to hear of the passing of your Grandma. We are keeping you and your entire family in our prayers. Gloria Pearce, (Cee’s grandma) & family.
You have my deepest sympathies. God grant you His peace.
To Delayne and Monty I am so sorry for your loss, your mom was blessed with many years here on earth, cherish her memories and how blessed you were to have her all these years.
Aunt Emma,
A definite jewel. The remaining relative from the Diggs and the others in your generation. We have moved around and had long periods of not seeing one another. But, the love and memories remain. You were the Rock and all that knew you will miss you! I find comfort in John 6:40. I hope my cousins and their extended family members can find comfort as well.