James Franklin Sommers

Surrounded by family, James (Jim) Franklin Sommers passed away peacefully at his home in Marietta, Georgia, on January 28, 2025, at the age of 85.

Jim was born on October 17, 1939, in Miami, Florida, to Audrey Trapnell and Benjamin Franklin Sommers. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved sister, (Sarah) Dale Reece.

Raised in Metter, Georgia, Jim played football for Metter High School before attending The University of Georgia. Following his studies, he proudly served in the United States Coast Guard.

Jim began his family in Miami, Florida, before eventually settling in the Atlanta area. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, and his children: James Brian Sommers and his wife Misty, Kristin Sommers Frey and husband Scott, Sharron Sommers Rovedo and husband John, Tomi Funderburk Lavender, and James Funderburk and wife Sherry. He was a cherished grandfather to Franklin Sommers, Morgan and Kelly Frey, Sarah and Isabella Rovedo, Ryan Funderburk, and Jack Lavender, and a proud great-grandfather to Connor Frey.

Jim was an avid jogger whose passion for the outdoors led him to a lifetime of hiking and camping adventures. Alongside Sharon, he explored trails from Florida to Maine, across the western United States, the California coast, and even across Canada. A true explorer at heart, Jim hiked much of the Appalachian Trail well into his seventies and accomplished the ambitious goal of walking most of the Camino de Santiago in Spain for his 80thbirthday.

Beyond his love for the outdoors, Jim found great joy in spending time with his family, caring for his pond, and feeding the many birds that made their home in his yard. He was the epitome of a Southern gentleman – kind, thoughtful, and wise – and he will be deeply missed. Jim’s adventurous spirit, love for his family, and his deep appreciation for seeing God’s handiwork in nature all around will always be cherished and remembered by those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Unity North Atlanta Church, 4255 Sandy Plains Rd, Marietta, GA 30066.