Joseph W. Summers facts for kids

Joseph W. Summers (born March 8, 1930 – died June 6, 1991) was an important leader in his community. He was a funeral director and a member of the Democratic Party. He represented the city of Indianapolis, Indiana, in the Indiana House of Representatives from 1977 until he passed away.

Early Life and Education

Joseph W. Summers was born on March 8, 1930. He grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, during a tough time called the Great Depression. He went to public schools in Indianapolis.

After high school, he attended the Indiana Academy of Mortuary Science. He earned a degree there. Later, he also studied at Indiana University. In 1948, he married Joyce Benson. She also graduated from Crispus Attucks High School. Joyce lived for many decades after Joseph passed away, until 2014. They had two daughters, Natalie and Vanessa Summers. His daughter Vanessa also became a politician.

Career and Community Leadership

In 1962, Joseph Summers started his own business, the Summers Funeral Chapels. He became a well-known businessman in central Indianapolis. His funeral home served both African American and white families.

Summers was very involved in his community. He was a member of the local Better Business Bureau, which helps businesses be fair. He also belonged to the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Freemasons, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The NAACP works for civil rights and equality. He was also on the board of the Alpha Home for the Aged. His wife, Joyce, also ran a successful flower shop called "Lucille's Flowers" for 40 years.

Entering Politics

Joseph Summers became active in politics early on. In 1952, he started as a precinct committeeman for the Democratic Party. This means he helped organize voters in his local area. Later, he became a Democratic ward leader.

From 1967 to 1978, he worked as the chief deputy coroner for Marion County. He also served on the Indianapolis Board of Public Safety from 1965 to 1968. This board helps oversee public safety services in the city.

Serving in the Indiana House of Representatives

In 1976, his friend and fellow Democrat, Julia Carson, decided to run for the state senate. Joseph Summers then ran for her seat in the Indiana House of Representatives. He won the election and began serving in 1977.

He was re-elected many times. At first, he represented the 45th district. After the 1980 census, the districts changed, and he served in the 51st district. He worked alongside other Democrats like William Crawford and John Day. After the 1990 census, Indiana switched to single-member districts. Summers won in the 99th district. He represented central Indianapolis for 15 years, until his death in 1991. He also served as Assistant Minority Caucus Chair from 1978 to 1980.

Death and Legacy

Joseph Summers battled cancer in his last years. He passed away on June 6, 1991. He was buried at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis. His wife, daughters, and grandchildren survived him.

His daughters continued to run the family funeral homes. Later, they combined with other local funeral businesses. "Lavenia & Summers" still operates funeral homes in Indianapolis today.

After his death, the City of Indianapolis honored him. An important bridge in the city was named the Joseph W. Summers Memorial Bridge in 1991. This bridge carries Meridian Street over Fall Creek. A historical marker was also placed in 1995 to remember his achievements in the community.

Joseph W. Summers Memorial Bridge carries Meridian Street over Fall Creek.