Joan Ann Sumner, born October 7, 1938 in Longview, Texas, was the only child in her family. Her childhood dance and music lessons introduced her to what would later become her preferred career. When she was young, her family moved to Ohio which is where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education, as well as two Master's Degrees. But her love for performing tugged deeply at her heart.
In her early 20's, she became Lacy J. Thomas, and moved to New York to chase her dream. From there, she moved to Los Angeles, California and lived and worked there for many years. "Lacy" was a very successful actress in New York and L.A., and played many roles in productions such as T.V. shows General Hospital and Cheers, Documentaries, off Broadway shows, and many others. She was also a frequent guest on radio and T.V. talk shows, and starred in several commercials. When her mother's health began to fail, Joan set "Lacy" aside and moved to Jasper, Texas to take care of her.
While in Jasper, Joan supported herself and her mother teaching at Stephen F. Austin University, and Angelina College. Although her life was full, she desperately missed performing and found her smile again by performing in local theatre. Joan's love for animals began early in life and brought her much happiness. She took in every stray that came her way, and showered them with love and affection. And although Joan had many suitors, she never married or had children, so her pets became her family.
On April 27, 2018, Joan Sumner / Lacy J. Thomas left peacefully in "their" sleep. The chemo that she willingly accepted to prolong her life ultimately took it, due to complications. A private ceremony was held after cremation. In lieu of any gifts, please send donation to S.N.I.P.S. ( Spay and Neuter Society) at P.O. Box 1222 Jasper, TX 75951 in Joan's honor. We will truly miss your tender and loving soul, your wonderful stories, your sweet spirit, your generous heart, and your beautiful smile, Joan. How blessed we were to have you in our lives. Joan was the daughter of Clementine "Clem" Lee Sumner and the granddaughter of William Lowery Sumner and Mary Jane Thomas and a descendant of Perry Thomas.
THE LINEAGE:
(Joan Ann Sumner was the daughter of Celementine Lee and Nellie Alta Sumner, granddaughter of William Lowery and Mary Jane Thomas Sumner and great-granddaughter of Rufus King and Alvie Adline Dunn Thomas. Rufus was the fifth child of Perry and Elizabeth Josephine Bridges Thomas. Perry was the third child of James and Mary Standley Thomas. Elizabeth was the sixth child of Drury and Charity Cohoon Bridges.)
