Summer Leighann Harwell

Summer Leighann Harwell, 46, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2024 at Robin Johnson Hospice House with her loving family by her side. 

 She was born in Gaston County, North Carolina, to James and Melinda Harwell. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Thomas L. Ottinger, Sr., Nancy L. Ottinger, J.D. Harwell, and Willie Harwell; and her great aunt Pearl. 

 Summer was a dedicated member of Flint Groves Baptist Church where she claimed the Lord as her own, referring to Him as “My Big ol’God!” She loved people, especially working with handicap, those with special needs people, and children. Summer earned a bachelors in marketing from Western Carolina University and worked as an elementary teachers assistant. She enjoyed swimming, going to the beach, and shopping. Anytime someone said they were going somewhere she would be ready to go and say “let me get my flipflops on.” Most of all she loved her family and was very close to her cousins. Summer leaves many happy memories to be cherished by all who knew and loved her. 

 Summer is survived by her parents, James and Melinda Harwell; brother, James L. Harwell; uncles, Thomas Ottinger, Jr (Lisa) and Jeffery Harwell (Donna); aunts, Lisa Bradley, Nancy Stevens, Billie Long (Darrell); many loving cousins; her best friend, Jan Haney; and her beloved Dachshund, Bruiser. 

 Family and friends will gather from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at Flint Groves Baptist Church, 2017 E. Ozark Avenue, Gastonia, NC 28054. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the church with Pastor Jeff Watts and Trey Bradley officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Flint Groves Baptist Church Youth Ministry and Missions, 2017 East Ozark Avenue. Gastonia, NC  28054
 

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

 Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com