Carl E. Cummings

Carl Edward Cummings, affectionately known throughout Arkadelphia as “Black Brother,” was born on August 1, 1955, to John Carl Cummings and Lauretta Tate. He grew up in Arkadelphia and attended Arkadelphia High School.

In 1973, Carl enlisted in the United States Army and served his country faithfully. During his military service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, qualified as a rifle marksman, and played basketball.

Carl was a member of St. Ruth Baptist Church in the Gum Springs community. He was widely known for his big smile and friendly disposition. There was no doubt that Carl was the life of the party. He treasured time with family and friends and looked forward to hearing his favorite song so he could make his way to the dance floor. He loved to dance, laugh, and enjoy a good time.

On June 8, 2001, Carl married the apple of his eye, Mammie Smith. The Lord blessed their union with a blended family of 5 children.

Carl worked for Georgia-Pacific for several years before retiring. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching basketball, track, and tennis, and eventually developed a love for golf. He also enjoyed horse racing and spent many seasons at Oaklawn Racetrack in Hot Springs, often returning home a winner.

Carl passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his father, John Carl Cummings; his beloved sister, Sheila Bragg; and his brother-in-law, Rev. Ezekiel Vaughn.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved mother, Lauretta Tate of Gum Springs, Arkansas; his devoted wife, Mammie Cummings; and his children, Onyette Cummings of Arkadelphia; Kelsey and Kevius Mitchum of Mansfield, TX; Evelyn and Ivan Ruiz of Waxahachie, TX; and Kirby Whitmore and Randle Whitmore, both of Arkadelphia. He also leaves eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Carl also leaves his siblings, Jackie and Patricia Tate of Gum Springs, AR; Vicki Vaughn of Plano, TX; Frenchie Gillette of Memphis, TN; Mark and Alejandra Gillette of Dallas, TX; and Frederick and Bianca Gillette of Glen Heights, TX; his father-in-law, Alfred Smith of Arkadelphia; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews; his dear friends Chris Hunter, Tommy Hall, Rupert Wilson, and Bennie Washington; and many other friends and extended family members.