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On September 4, 1938, James Ray Cummings (86) was born in his grandmother’s home in Burnsville, Mississippi. He peacefully passed away in his home in Burnsville Mississippi on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, surrounded by family. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” The marriage of 52 years to the love of his life, Mary Annis Cummings, ended too soon when she went to be with their Lord and Savior in 2007. He was the spiritual cornerstone of our family, a shepherd to his home, and a steady example of what it means to walk humbly with the Lord. His life was not about earthly gain or recognition, but about obedience, love, and legacy. Every decision he made, and every word he spoke, was with eternity in mind. James Ray’s life was a living sermon—a testimony of faith, love, and discipleship. Though his earthly voice is now silent, the impact of his life echoes in every heart he touched. He leaves behind a family forever changed by his presence, his prayers, and his purpose: Daughters: Vanessa Beard (Mike), Jean Atkins, Sheryl Blakney (JR), and Patricia Floyd Son: Stanley Cummings (deceased) A very special companion: Lona Odom. Grandchildren: Marianne Mejia, Laura Jean Weeks (Wesley), Jamie Borden, Mandy Hubbard, Steven Atkins (Courtney), Patrick White (Erin), Timothy White, Acey Floyd (Chelsea), Corey Cummings (Kate), and Amy King (Josh) along with 23 great grandchildren (Lydia Weeks-deceased) and 2 great great granddaughters (Willow Jones-deceased) Siblings: Marlene Bonds (Joe – deceased), Debra Hudson (Steve), Ricky Cummings (Wanda), Charles Clay Cummings (deceased) (Linda), Ann Cummings (deceased), Rebecca Cummings (infant – deceased), Raymond Cummings (infant – deceased) In-laws: Charles Bonds (Jennifer), Carolyn Chalk (Donnie), Leroy Bonds (deceased), Oneil and Delma Bonds (deceased) Parents: Arlie and Jewel Cummings (both deceased) Even though we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that he is now resting in the arms of the Savior he served so faithfully.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
Arrangements have been made with Ludlam’s Funeral Home in Iuka, Mississippi. Visitation will begin Saturday, July 26, from 6:00 PM to 8:00PM, and will continue Sunday, July 27, at 11:00 AM until the funeral at 2:00 PM. Grandsons Corey Cummings, Acey Floyd, and Steven Atkins will be officiating our final goodbyes. Pallbearers include: Jamie Borden, Patrick White, Timothy White, Cayden Hubbard, Grady Hubbard, Kirk Pettigrew, Parker Atkins, Bryce Jones and Weston King. Ludlam Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Ray Cummings. You may leave your condolences to the family at www.ludlamfuneralhome.com
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