Rev. Sumbry was born in Russell County, AL, the son of the late Rev. Jake and Nellie Duncan Sumbry. He was a devout member of Gethsemane Baptist Church where he served with the Sons of Abraham, Missionary Ministry, and Sunday School. He was also active with the Columbus Clergyman's Class, the Original Mt. Carmel Association, Columbus /Phenix City Baptist Minister's Conference and the Georgia National Baptist Convention, and General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, just to name a few.

He was retired from Bibb Manufacturing Co. following 25 plus years of dedicated service. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mrs. Martha Holloway Sumbry, a daughter, Barbara S. Giles, and six siblings, George, L.C. and James Sumbry, Carrie Richardson, Margaret Fleming and Lucinda Eley.

Surviving are: five sons, Earnest L. Sumbry, Jr. (Christine), Reverend Michael R. Sumbry (Marva), William E. Sumbry (Margarita), Robert G. Sumbry (Amanda) and Johnny L. Sumbry (Cindy); two daughters, Malinda G. Sumbry-Seldon (James) and Vernelle Sumbry-Pierce (Dwayne); twenty-six grandchildren, twenty-nine great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.