Deacon Willie E. Cummings Jr.

Willie "Bill" Eugene Cummings, Jr. was born to Lt. Col. Willie E. Cummings, Sr. and Barbara Jean Cummings in Memphis, Tennessee on April 16, 1962. He lived a life filled with faith, love, and an unwavering commitment to his family. On October 4, 2025, Bill passed away peacefully after an extended illness.
A man who never met a stranger, Bill had an infectious personality, a laugh no one could forget, and a gift for making people smile. He was known for his collection of corny jokes that he would share with anyone willing to listen. His love of language was evident in his fondness for "big words" that would send everyone scrambling for the dictionary. But it was his hearty laugh and his big smile, especially the one he reserved for the love of his life, Denise-that made him unforgettable.
Bill's father, known as Gene, served in Vietnam, flying crucial missions to support the U.S. troops. As a result of his father's military service, the family relocated 29 times and finally settled in Riverside, CA. Reared in the Church of Christ, and baptized at the age of 10, Bill and his siblings created many cherished memories, including the occasional scolding for their shenanigans while serving in church. These moments of mischief only added to the rich tapestry of his life. His loving mother, Barbara, was tenacious in her attention to raising her children in the "way they should go."
Bill was an avid soccer player and boxer. He was a natural leader and participated in Junior Achievement, and the Black Student Union. He often got tapped to lead initiatives due to his "get it done" attitude and inner confidence.
Bill was a proud graduate of Riverside Polytechnic High School and earned both his undergraduate degree and MBA in Marketing from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Bill dedicated his professional life to marketing and biopharmaceuticals, building an impressive career as a marketing executive. Bill was renowned as a "walking medical book," possessing an extraordinary ability to recall detailed medical information. His encyclopedic knowledge, combined with his genuine care for patients, made him an invaluable asset, especially in the sickle cell and rare disease communities.
Bill was first married to Chandra White, and from this union one son, Brandon Eugene, was born. On July 1, 1995, Bill married Denise Regina Harold, and together they welcomed two sons, Allen William and David Michael. His devotion to his family and his faith were the cornerstones of his life.
A true jazz aficionado, Bill could often be found with his eyes closed, lost in the smooth sounds of Miles Davis. He also enjoyed all genres of gospel including contemporary gospel and gospel hip-hop. His favorite contemporary gospel group was Commissioned. Bill was known for belting out a song loudly, in the shower. When he wasn't immersed in music, he enjoyed spending quality time with his wonderful sons, training them in the art of manhood and responsibility. He also cherished hitting the golf course or tennis court, where he combined his competitive spirit with his love of the outdoors. Throughout their 30 years of marriage, the family relocated five times, making memories in NJ (Denville), FL (Pembroke Pines), MA (Waltham), and NJ (Upper Saddle River and Rockaway). During each relocation, the Cummings kept the church covenant and united with a local church.
Known for his love of hermeneutics, he would gladly reason and witness to anyone about the Word. This belief was the foundation for his service to ministry and people. His service to Community Baptist Church (CBC) included Community Saints 2050 A.D. (a youth leadership program), Ushers, Men's Impact and Parking Lot Ministries.
Additionally, both Bill and Denise served in the Marriage Ministry. In 2019, he was ordained as a Deacon at Community Baptist Church, by the Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr. Denise joined Bill, in this commitment to the CBC family, and served alongside him as a Deaconess.
Though he has left this earthly realm, Bill's legacy of love, laughter, and joy will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. His spirit lives on in the memories shared, the jokes retold, and the music that still plays.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Wendell Jerome Cummings.
Bill leaves to cherish his memory: his father Willie E. Cummings, Sr, his mother Barbara J. Smith-Cummings, his beloved wife, Denise Regina Cummings; three sons, Brandon Eugene Cummings, Allen William Cummings (Selena), and David Michael Cummings; his sister, Valerie Merriweather (Kurt), two nieces, (Kayla Joy and Reese Justine) and two nephews (Miles Jerome and Ellis James); sister-in-law, Jennifer Raleigh (Willard); the entire Cummings Clan, including 24 cousins, and a host of extended family members and friends whose lives he touched with his wisdom, humor, and boundless love.
Rest in peace, Bill. Your smile, your laughter, and your love will be forever missed and always remembered.