Harold C. Summerford

Obituary

Harold Cecil Summerford, 89, of St. Petersburg, Florida, died on December 7, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1936, in Horry County, South Carolina, and was raised on a small family farm in Brittons Neck, South Carolina.

Harold studied business at Palmer Business College in Charleston while also enlisting in the U.S. Army Reserves, from which he was later honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant. He began his career in 1957 as an accounting clerk at the Charleston plant of United Piece Dye Works. Through hard work, sound judgment, and strong leadership, he rose to become president of the company in 1976 and later led a management buyout in 1981. He guided the company through periods of growth, sale, repurchase, and another sale before retiring in 1997.

He also served as president of the St. Petersburg Country Club, where he helped support the club’s continued success. An avid golfer, he treasured the many friendships he formed through the game.

Harold was known for his keen intellect, tremendous work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to connect well with others. Over the years, he counseled and mentored many people who sought his advice in growing their businesses. He was also a strong supporter of St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.

He loved his family deeply and always stressed the importance of family values. The work ethic and determination that defined his life were shaped by his upbringing on the farm and the rural community where he grew up.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Paulette Alford Summerford; his son, Allen Summerford (Tula) of Raleigh, North Carolina; his daughter, Karen Summerford Melhem (Rob) of Ocala, Florida; granddaughter Dr. Katina Summerford (Mark Karinja) of New Orleans, Louisiana; grandson Michael Melhem (Carly) of Greenville, South Carolina; grandson Nicholas Summerford (Tyler) of Charlotte, North Carolina; grandson John Summerford (Jacklin) of Raleigh, North Carolina; grandson Matthew Melhem of Charlotte, North Carolina; and granddaughter Kara Summerford of New York, New York; great-granddaughters Nicola and Eleni; as well as an extended loving family from the Charleston, South Carolina area and beyond, and many dear friends who will miss him immensely.

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