Longtime Royersford Woman, 'Gifted Seamstress', Dies At 97

Image and obituary courtesy Campbell Ennis Klotzbach Funeral Home

ROYERSFORD, PA — Cleo A. (Sumner) Beyer, 97, wife of Herbert K. Beyer, of Stuart, Florida, formerly of Royersford, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday, February 25, 2018 surrounded by her family at Doctors Hospital in Sarasota, Florida. Born on November 11, 1920 in Lynchburg, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Fred Sumner, and Clara Brooks, who was later married to the late John Schlottman.

Cleo was a gifted seamstress who could design a dress for someone just by looking at them. She ran a bridal boutique out of her home for 10 years. After meeting with a bride or a client, she would design the gown, and would often travel by train to purchase the materials in New York City.

Cleo and Herb were avid travelers, and saw most of the world together. She also enjoyed time at the beach, and was known for her fondness of martinis.

A lover of animals, she had taken in many rescues over the years, which included everything from domestic dogs and cats to horses, sheep, chickens and geese. She also bred and raised Shetland sheepdogs. Once she moved to Florida, she developed a love for local wildlife and could often be found feeding the birds.

Most importantly, family was the most significant thing in her life. She was always available to help anyone who needed it, and regularly kept in touch with her family all over the country.

Cleo is survived by two daughters: Linda Steelman, wife of Jimmie Mills, of Dallas, Texas, and Judy Kurz, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania; one son: Kurt Beyer, husband of Elizabeth Beyer, of Sarasota, Florida; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and step-father, she was preceded in death by her brother, Gratton Sumner.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her celebration of life on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Mausoleum at Limerick Garden of Memories located at 44 Swamp Pike, Limerick, Pennsylvania. Officiating will be the Rev. Janelle L. Krais. Following the service, at 12:30 p.m., there will be a luncheon at The Copperfield Inn at Lakeside located at 594 West Ridge Pike, Limerick, Pennsylvania.

Arrangements are being handled by the Cattermole-Klotzbach Funeral Home in Royersford, Pennsylvania. Condolences may be offered online at www.RoyersfordFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Cleo are being accepted by Treasure Coast Wildlife Center at TCWild.org, or by contacting Susie Nash at the center by phone at 772-286-6200.