Jackson Sumner,"...pulled up anchor and set off on his final sail."

This week we lost a true-sailor and good friend of mine. I wrote the following to his two adult children:

​Dear Jane and Rob,


I'm saddened to learn from Jane that your Father 'set off on his final sail.' Although I'm sad, as Pat just said, "That's a good way to go." and I agree.
,
Jack was one of my longest friendships. We met at Tabor and kept in touch for more than 68 years.

At Tabor, he was studious and dedicated to the sailing/cruising program. I remember having classes with your Father and in our senior year, your Dad roomed with Ken Longe (who I called this afternoon when I received your sad message), Dave Hill and me. We shared a choice apartment in Knowlton House overlooking Sippican Harbor. We were a compatible group with similar interests and good company. We, perhaps, kept in touch more than any four classmates of the 1952 class.

I particularly enjoyed cruising and sailing with Jack. He was so knowledgeable about the sea and taught me much. I remember the day I decided to buy a boat myself to sail off Hilton Head. I called Jack and he immediately suggested a Marshall Catboat. I'd never heard of them. He said they were located just down the street from where he lived in Padernarem and he'd walk down and be sure they rushed a brochure to me. A week later I bought a Marshall Sanderling and your Father visited us on Hilton Head and sailed with me. He later carved a magnificent tiller for me that enabled me to stand up while under-way.  I loved that boat almost as much as your dad loved his Concordia.

Jack knew the insurance business and he really was the only one I ever trusted in that complicated business.

Jack was loyal to Tabor and both of you are proud graduates of that unique school.

I'm so glad Jane brought her Father to Kittery for a couple of lunches together and Ken and I spoke about that memory today. 

Jack kept in touch for so many years; even when I wasn't completely sure if he heard what I was saying. He visited us whereever we lived and called me when he wasn't able to visit. He was true-blue and I will miss him.

You both were so good to your Dad. Nice job and thanks, Jane, for keeping in touch.