Cora Mae (Jones) Summers

Cora Mae Summers, 101, of Crossett, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Home.

Born on January 21, 1924, Cora Mae was a proud 1942 graduate of Hamburg High School. In 1944, she answered the call to serve her country, enlisting in the United States Navy during World War II. As a Mailman Second Class, she played a crucial role in ensuring U.S. servicemen received letters from loved ones—a duty that required her to handle highly classified information regarding naval movements.

Following her honorable military service, Cora Mae married the love of her life, Maurice, and together they embarked on a successful career in construction. They founded a contracting business, building numerous homes and churches throughout the Crossett area. One of their most visible projects was the Crossett Area Chamber of Commerce building. In 1963, they expanded their endeavors by establishing Summers Building Supply, which they operated side by side for many years before eventually deciding to sell the business.

At the age of 52, Cora Mae embraced a new calling—nursing. With an innate passion for caring for others, she pursued and earned an associate’s degree in nursing from A & M University (now the University of Arkansas at Monticello). Becoming a registered nurse was more than just a profession for Cora Mae; it was a reflection of her deep compassion and dedication to service. She devoted decades to the field, including 20 years at Morehouse General Hospital in Bastrop, Louisiana, where she touched countless lives with her skill and kindness.

One of seven children and born a twin, Cora Mae was the unwavering rock of her family. Her strength, compassion, and faith defined her life. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Crossett, she was instrumental in the construction of the church’s Multi-Ministry Building. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, and she lived each day fulfilling God's plan with grace and dedication.

Cora Mae had a gift for storytelling and a rare ability to connect with people of all ages. She found joy in reading, playing bridge, and staying active. A passionate traveler, she explored countless countries and all 50 states—48 of them alongside her beloved husband, Maurice, in their travel trailer.

Throughout her remarkable 101 years, Cora Mae never took a single day for granted. She embraced life fully, cherishing every moment with her family and friends, always guided by love, faith, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Maurice Summers; two sisters, Flossie White and Edith Lum; and three brothers, Bill Jones, Robert E. “Bobby” Jones, and her twin, James Fay Jones.

She leaves behind one son, Glynn Summers (Debbie) of Crossett; and one daughter, Becky Taplin (Glenn) of San Antonio, TX; along with one brother, Clyde D. Jones of Maysville, GA; 5 grandchildren, Allison Thyng, Amanda Willett, Kimberly Witzsche, Jaime Dean, and Ryan Taplin; 13 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; 2 special sister in-laws, Martha Jones Lauhon and Earlene Summers Rice; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family would like to personally thank the staffs of both the Pillars of Crossett and the NE Louisiana Veterans Home, along with Ms. Rita Rawls for their compassionate care during Cora Mae’s final years.

A Celebration of Cora Mae’s Life including both the U.S. Navy Honor Guard and the Nurse Honor Guard will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 11th, at the First Baptist Church, 701 Main St, in Crossett, with Pastors Phillip Slaughter and Jamie Staley, officiating.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy 52 W, in Crossett.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to the First Baptist Church of Crossett General Fund.

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