Sumner “Sam” Allen Webber

HALLOWELL – Sumner Allen Webber “Sam,” 89, passed away at Togus VA Medical Center on Dec. 1, 2025, with his family at his side. He was born on June 27, 1936, in Rutland, Vt., to the late Marvelle and Emeroy (Kinsman) Webber.

Sam attended Hallowell elementary and junior high schools. He later went to high school and graduated from Millbrook School in Millbrook, New York. He went on to Middlebury college in Middlebury, Vermont where he received his bachelor’s degree in American History. Having completed four years of ROTC, he received his commission upon graduation and served in the US Army Reserves until 1969 when he was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.

Moving back to Hallowell after his Army service, Sam was involved with state and local history for many years. He was the director of Fort Western Museum in the 1970’s and 80’s, had an active role in the Bicentennial celebration and was for many years a member of the Maine State Archives Advisory Committee for Local Records.

He was better known for his 33 years as a history teacher at Hall Dale High School and his long service as the Hallowell City Historian, giving speeches and tours of the city and fielding questions about Hallowell from people from all over the country. He also served as a city counselor, helped out on various city committees and was voted “Citizen of the Year” in 1996 by the Old Hallowell Day Committee. He spent many years on the Board of Directors of Hubbard Free Library.

He used his abilities in the different roles he played in the greater community over the years as diverse as building parade floats and snow sculptures, serving as a Corporator of the Kennebec Savings Bank, taking a turn as an auctioneer on the, “Great TV Auction” and as a volunteer fireman in Coopers Mills where the family lived for many years before moving back to Hallowell.

He enjoyed making maple syrup in the backyard with his son, climbing mountains, and helping to build the new house for his family. He was a talented photographer artist and of course a natural story teller. He enlightened and amused his friends and family with the book he wrote about growing up in Hallowell in the 1940’s.

Sam is survived by his wife of 61 years, Catharine (McConnell) Webber, daughter Sarah Webber, son Sumner Webber Jr. and wife Sandra, granddaughters Lindsay and Emily Webber. As well as many close friends.

Per Sam’s request, there will be a private graveside service held in Hallowell Cemetery in the spring.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin Street, Winthrop, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Roberts Funeral Home website, http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Hubbard Free Library, 115 Second St., Hallowell, ME 04347.