A native of Portland, Arkansas and the youngest of 12 children, Deacon Summerville married the late Lenora Vaughn on December 16, 1940. After accepting a job with the Crossett Lumber Company, Deacon Summerville and his young family moved to Crossett. Deacon Summerville quickly became involved with the First Baptist Church; later changing his membership to the young New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon and Trustee. 

As a young child, Deacon Summerville had an avid interest in vocal music. He became involved with the music ministry at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and started singing bass in the Senior Choir, later becoming director of the choir. Deacon Summerville founded the Keystone Gospel Singers, and the group sung on stage with many famous quartet groups including the Staple Sisters. Deacon Summerville also taught music through the Southeast Arkansas District Association using the shape-note music notation for vocal music, and was honored by the American Quartet Convention in Alabama for his music ability. 

In addition to music, Deacon Summerville had a profound interest in the welfare of Ashley County. A hunter and gardener at a time when most people raised vegetables out of necessity, Deacon Summerville devoted both time and effort to supplement the meals of many local residents. He raised fresh vegetables in his garden, and for years brought home many squirrels, rabbits and coons to Sunday Fried Chicken Dinners. 

I extend my deepest and sincere sympathies to Deacon Summerville's five children, Ruby, Annie Pearl, Willie T., Sarah, and Bertha Sue, his friends, and colleagues. I will continue to keep Deacon Summerville and his family in my thoughts and prayers.