Leonard Alfred Cummings

Leonard Alfred Cummings, a cherished son, father, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on October 28, 2024. Born in Georgetown, Guyana, on October 28, 1939, to Mabel Cummings, Leonard's life was a testament to resilience, integrity, and dedication.

A distinguished scholar and athlete, Leonard known as "Mice" by his friends pursued higher education at Inter American University in Puerto Rico, where he shone as a star athlete on the university's track team and later at Brooklyn College for his masters. His passion for athletics started well before his college years, as he proudly represented his native Guyana on their National Track Team, showcasing his extraordinary commitment to excellence.

Professionally, Leonard dedicated 25 years to AT&T, where he made a significant impact through his work. While a resident of Flanders, NJ he was known for his generosity in teaching. In addition Leonard delighted in coaching track for the town track program and sharing his love for mathematics and bookbinding with anyone willing to learn. Skilled with his hands, he was also known for his talents in woodworking and bookbinding, creating pieces and making repairs that reflected his craftsmanship and creativity. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Leonard especially enjoyed watching cricket, track and field, and soccer, holding these passions close to his heart.

Leonard was preceded in death by his adored mother, beloved brothers, Arnold Adonis and Allan Ignatius Cummings, and his cherished sister, Olga Charles. He is survived by his son, Lester Cummings of Bloomfield, NJ, and his daughter, Dr. Lenise Cummings-Vaughn, and her husband, Dr. Michael Vaughn, of St. Louis, MO, who all carry forward his legacy of generosity, compassion, and love for learning. Leonard was the proud grandfather of Layla, Lyric, and Leighton, who will remember his warmth and guidance with great fondness.

He is also remembered with affection by his many nieces and nephews including, Ingrid Andrews, Simon Jamel, Jennifer Cummings-Martin, Chris Thomas, and Paul Cummings, as well as a wide circle of cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and friends. Leonard's gifts of kindness, humor, strength and an unwavering commitment to family, have left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

The funeral service will be held on Friday the 8th of November Grace United Methodist Church in St. Louis, MO. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Marble Collegiate Church in New York, NY on Saturday the 14th of December. A private interment of ashes will occur with family at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Chester New Jersey. In lieu of

flowers please direct donations to Memory Care Home Solutions, an organization committed to supporting individuals with dementia and their caregivers, https://memorycarehs.org/donate/. His memory will be forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.