Obituary of STEPHEN I SUMNER

Stephen Issac Sumner

1941 - 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen Sumner on 30 November 2024. 

Steve lived a rich and fulfilling 83 years, touching the lives of thousands of students throughout his diverse career. Starting as a public school teacher and elementary school principal in the 1970s and 1980s, he ventured into the emerging field of educational computing software. Steve served as a professor of computer skills and educational theory at PACE University and Excelsior College, where he particularly loved guiding PhD students in developing their theses.

Steve's passion for education originated during his time at Brandeis University. Steve and Ellen Sumner were married at the Brandeis Jewish Chapel on April 22, 1967. He maintained deep ties with his alma mater throughout his life, sending both his children there and serving with Ellen as co-presidents of the university’s Westchester (NY) alumni chapter in the 1980s and 1990s. He and Ellen travelled back to Brandeis for many reunion weekends and Steve was deeply pleased to have reunited in-person with so many classmates during a special 50th anniversary reunion back in 2013. 

Up until his passing, he spoke fondly of Brandeis, frequently sharing stories of the significant relationships and life lessons he gained during those years. 

Following his Ph.D. studies in Education at Columbia University, Steve studied and taught many subjects, but he was most passionate about how science and technology could shape the future of everything. He was an avid follower of politics and took great pride in both of his children winning elected positions within their local Democratic parties.

Steve enjoyed staying informed about the latest technological developments, cherished keeping in touch with friends, both in person and online, and was a life-long fan of science-fiction. In his final days, he fondly reminisced about his youth spent folk dancing, especially on the rooftop of the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan, where he met Ellen, his beloved wife of 57 years.

Since 1999, Steve and Ellen have lived in Middlesex Township, NJ, to be near their daughter and grandchildren. Before that, they lived in Pelham, NY; Jamestown, NY; and the Bronx, NY, among other places.

Steve is survived by his wife, Ellen Sumner; his son Charles Sumner and daughter-in-law Marsy Sumner; his daughter Randi Sumner and daughter-in-law Kristin Broggi; and his brother Marshall Sumner. He loved celebrating the accomplishments of his four grandchildren, as well as his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, plus one great-great-niece and two great-great nephews. 

The family held a small, private service. Shiva will be observed at the home Steve and Ellen shared at 5 Lydecker Place, Middlesex Borough, NJ.  

Monday - Wednesday

December 2-4

1:00 - 5:00 pm and 

7:00 - 9:00 pm

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Brandeis University to further support the institution he cherished.  Donations may be sent to the Brandeis University General Fund, 415 South Street, MS 126, Waltham, MA 02453 or made online at www.brandeis.edu/give.