Charles Delbert Cummings

Charles D Cummings (81) saw the face of Jesus on May 19, 2024.  He was born in Hazen, AR on August 22, 1942, to the late Arthur Cummings and Odell Cummings.  He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Joy Cummings of Lonoke and his son, Chuck Cummings of Little Rock.  He is survived by his daughters, Leigh Anne Stankoski (Marc) of Waxahachie, TX, and Amanda McGraw (John) of Dumas, AR; his sister, Sharon Cole (Rodger) 0f Judsonia; his grandchildren, Tabor McGraw (Hannah) of McGehee, AR, Kelsey McGraw of Dumas, AR, Zach Cummings of Fayetteville, AR, Caden Stankoski of Waxahachie, TX, Brandon Stankoski of Waxahachie, TX, one great-grandchild, Tatum McGraw of McGehee, AR and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charlie grew up in Lonoke and attended Lonoke High School, where he met the great love of his life.  They were married on August 29, 1965, and settled in their forever home in Lonoke in 1967.  After serving in the national guard, he took an accounting position with Ben Hogan Construction Company while he and Joy began growing their family.  He later accepted a position at Central Arkansas Planning and Development where he rose to the title of Executive Director.  He traveled all over the country and the state working with federal and local governments to assist in the economic development of cities and townships. After 20 years, he accepted a position at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in the agricultural department where he assisted in the study of experimental farming to better assist the farming community in raising their crops.

Charlie was a past Grand Master of Lonoke Lodge #51, and never laid aside his duty as a mason.  He was frequently called all over the state to perform masonic funerals and other inductions. He was an avid supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks, and never missed an opportunity to see them play any sport.  He was rarely seen without his trademark Razorback baseball cap.

He never failed to be an example of Christian love to his family.  His home was always open to any child who needed shelter.  He became a father figure to many children who needed guidance.  He was firm, but fair, and lived by the motto: the less said, the less to be undone.   He was an active member of Lonoke Baptist Church and saw to it that his children knew the love of Jesus.  He was a gifted tenor, and frequently sang in the choir, often accompanied by his wife, Joy, on the piano.

Charlie was a loving father, who never missed an event with his children.  He taught them patience, good judgment, and unconditional love.  He was a friend to all who knew him and never met a stranger.  He will be missed until we see him again in Glory.