Billy Ray Cummings

PENIEL COMMUNITY…Mr. Billy Ray Cummings, a resident of the Peniel Community, near Skipperville, died early Thursday morning, September 3, 2026, at his home. He was 69.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Sunday, September 6, 2026, in Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, Arguta Community, with Pastor Jason Waddell officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 P.M. Sunday at the church. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Cummings, son of the late William James Cummings and Evie Lee Walker Cummings, was born and raised in Ozark and carried a deep love for his hometown throughout his life. For the past thirty-three years, he made his home in the Peniel Community, where he built a life surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors who came to know and appreciate his kind heart, strong work ethic, and outgoing personality.

A hardworking man, Mr. Cummings spent many years in the logging industry, working for both Echo Logging Company and Eufaula Pulpwood. He took great pride in his work and was never afraid of long days and hard labor. Those who knew him understood that he believed in earning an honest living and providing for those he loved.

When he was not working, Mr. Cummings found great joy outdoors. He loved spending time hunting and fishing and was especially fascinated by searching for arrowheads. Whether he was walking through the woods, casting a fishing line, or sharing stories about his latest discovery, he was happiest when enjoying the simple pleasures of life and the beauty of nature.

More than anything, Mr. Cummings treasured time spent with family and friends. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome. His larger-than-life personality, quick sense of humor, and ability to make people laugh made him the life of any gathering. Whether it was a family cookout, a hunting trip, or simply sitting around talking with friends, he loved being surrounded by the people who meant the most to him. His presence could light up a room, and his stories, laughter, and friendly spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Martha Ann Cummings, and his brother, James Leonard Cummings.

Surviving relatives include his wife of forty-eight years, Ilene German Cummings, Peniel Community; daughter, Billie Jean Webb (Lucas), Ozark; three sisters, Betty Jean Cummings, Patricia McKnight, and Effie Beasley; two brothers, Floyd Cummings (Pauline) and Earl Cummings (Linda Faye), all of Ozark; two grandchildren, Cade Webb and Alyssa Waddell (Cole); great-granddaughter, Braelynn Rhae; nieces, nephews, and cousins.