Carolyn Elizabeth Cummings

Carolyn Harris Cummings of Sheridan, AR passed away on September 14 at 92 years of age. She leaves behind a legacy of selfless love, hard work, and a lifetime dedicated to the care of others.

She grew up in rural south Arkansas, in a time where church, family, and neighbors were how people survived. She carried those deeply rooted values with her every day of her life. From the very beginning, her primary focus was her family. As a wife and mother, she was the anchor of the family for her husband Carlton and three children, always putting herself second to ensure they had everything they needed. She maintained this fierce, protective, and nurturing love for her children throughout.

That same unwavering devotion was on full display late in life when her beloved husband, Carlton became dependent on dialysis care. Showcasing her truly unstoppable spirit, she drove him 30 miles each way for treatments, returning home to manage her career, and braving treacherous Arkansas ice storms to pick him up and bring him safely home. No obstacle was too great when it came to caring for the people she loved.

Her natural gift for caregiving extended far beyond her home. As her daughter entered high school, Carolyn embarked on a remarkable professional journey. Through determination and self-guided study, she became a state-certified nursing home administrator. From the early 1980s through the early 1990s, she served with distinction as the administrator for the Grant County Nursing Home, providing dignity and comfort to countless residents until her first retirement. She also was in  Eastern Star for 72 years, having served as Secretary for 28 years.

Retiring, however, could not dim her passion for serving others. When the Arkansas Agency for the Aging built two new homes in Sheridan, they knew exactly who to call. From 1994 until 2016, she managed and poured her heart into caring for the residents of those two homes. During this same incredibly busy period, she also helped raise grandchildren, pouring her warmth and wisdom into their lives and leaving a profound, positive influence on a whole new generation. She finally retired for a second time at age 82.

Throughout carrying out the absolute hardest work imaginable; she did it with a grace that left those around her in awe. She simply did what needed to be done and never once complained. More than anyone, she has earned her rest, and celebration in heaven. We take immense comfort knowing she is now surrounded by many family and friends who have gone before her, celebrating her arrival until we can all meet again.

Carolyn is preceded in death by her husband, Carlton Cummings, her sister Florence Harris Cornelius of Prescott, AR, her brother Barney Harris Jr. of Gainesville, FL and one grandchild Jerry Wayne Cummings Jr of Ocala, FL.

She is survived by her three children, Darryl Cummings (Kelley) of Hot Springs, Jerry Cummings (Julie) of Ocala Florida, and Marilyn Dumond (Lance) of Sheridan. She is also survived by grandchildren Cameron Cummings, Spencer Cummings, Josh Phillips, Justine Phillips, Jeffrey Cummings, Chris Yates, and Will Yates and their families along with 14 Great Grandkids that were also a big part of her life.

She is also survived by her sister, Shelby Harris Avery of Little Rock. They had a very special bond and were “two peas in a pod”. They shared their childhood, families, their ups and downs, dreams, and giggles.

A memorial service celebrating Carolyn’s life is scheduled for Sunday, September 20 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Gardens.