James Cummins

James W. Cummins 04/28/33 - 03/23/25

James W. Cummins, age 91, passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning, March 23rd, 2025, surrounded by his youngest children and grandchildren. Family, faith and hard work were an important part of his life. He was born on April 28th, 1933 in North Olmsted, OH, the sixth of seven children of John & Florence Cummins and was raised in North Ridgeville, OH. The family were members of St. Peter's Parish. Jim participated in 4-H, raising cattle for competition in the Lorain County Fair. After High School, he enlisted in the United States Army where he served in Germany during the Korean War. He took pride in his service. After the military, Jim then worked at the Donn Products Plant in Westlake, OH, before entering a partnership and opening a lawnmower shop in Avon, OH. He would grow that business into Avon Sports Cycle, selling and repairing lawn and garden equipment, motorcycle, snowmobiles and jet skis. During this time, he moved to Avon, OH with his wife Dorothy (Ferko) and their growing family - James J., Edward, Brian, Joseph & Julie. They were parishioners of St. Mary's Catholic Church where Jim was an Usher and member of the Holy Name Society. He was a founding member of the annual Oktoberfest organizing committee. He enjoyed being a solid contributor to his Holy Name bowling team. He enjoyed motorcycle trips, road trips, nature and a good campfire. His business took him on trips to Hawaii, Portugal, Japan and Mexico.

In the early 1980's he returned to work for Donn Products which had been acquired by USG and he relocated to work in their plant in Cartersville, GA. He would advance to specialize in Safety Supervision and worked in HR. He joined St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He loved NASCAR and a highlight was a safety training where he met and rode with Bill Elliott. He went on to marry Christine (Bachman) and together they raised Grace, Joey, Seth and Emma. They purchased a rural farm home that surely reminded him of his childhood home. They raised pigs, goats, rabbits, geese, ducks, chickens and llamas. He loved animals, especially a list of loyal dogs through the years. He fully adopted the Atlanta sports teams. He joined St. Clement's Catholic Church in Calhoun, GA, where he organized and drove the school bus for students going to the Catholic school. He also installed their playground equipment. A travel highlight was when he took Seth and Emma to Moldova, Hungary and Romania. After retirement, while working on many home projects, he began to experience health issues. His ability to stay strong and persevere was incredible.

After losing mobility and being confined to a wheelchair, Joey would lend invaluable care to both Jim and Christine for numerous years. Through it all, Jim maintained a positive outlook and disposition. Judy Tant, a good family friend, was also a thoughtful supportive caregiver. She and Jim were married in 2020 and she provided loving care through the end.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; siblings John, Betty, Jeanne, Janet and Mona; spouses Dorothy and Christine; and several loved nieces and nephews. He is survived by his wife, Judy; his sister Rita (Vogel); his nine children, 18 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Mass will be held for James at 11:00 am on Friday, March 28, 2025 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.  Burial will follow at 1pm at Cassville Cemetery.  The reception will be held after the burial at 11 Mountainbrook Drive, Cartersville, Georgia.

Parnick Jennings Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of  Mr. James Cummins.