Thomas Cummings

Thomas Francis Cummings, 77, entered the presence of his Savior Jesus Christ. Tom was a man of God, devoted husband, loving son, brother, father and cherished grandfather who passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

Tom was born on August 31, 1948, in Duluth, MN, to Barney and Elizabeth Cummings. After graduating from high school in Detroit Lakes, MN, Tom proudly served his country as a radar technician in the U.S. Navy, a journey that took him to the Philippines, Guantanamo Bay, Guam, and the West Coast.

Tom married his beloved wife Peggy in 1986. Their annual trips to Duluth and cherished Friday night date nights were some of his favorite moments.

A man of diverse passions, Tom was a skilled and avid golfer who loved the camaraderie of the game. He also enjoyed reading, watching sports, hunting, and fishing. He looked forward to his Saturday morning devotionals with his "breakfast buddies." He will be remembered for his love of Jesus and commitment to helping those in need, ministering, positive outlook, outgoing nature, kindness, and dry sense of humor.

Tom attended college for six years, earning his bachelor's degree in business. He pursued different careers before successfully founding his own company, Cummings Transportation Services (CTS), a trucking brokerage firm in Detroit Lakes, which he ran for over 30 years.

After giving his life to the Lord, Tom’s faith became the cornerstone of his existence. He lived and breathed the Word of God, reading, studying, and sharing the Gospel with everyone he met. He devoted his life to serving The Lord in every way, serving as an Elder in his church for over 20 years. He poured his heart into ministry, eventually being ordained and serving as a chaplain after retirement. As a chaplain, he cherished his time with the men at Daystar Recovery. He also was the sound man for the Manning Family ministry for many years. Tom never lost his faith, hope, or joy, and had a heart for helping others in need.

Tom had so much pride and joy in his family and faithfully prayed for them daily. He is survived by his wife of 39 years: Peggy Cummings; children: Josh (Mary) Cummings, Sarah (Isaiah) Nielson, Aaron Cummings, and Leah Cummings; grandchildren: Alex, Evan, Jacob, Colton, Alice, Murphy, Millie; and great-granddaughter, Chenoa. He is also survived by his siblings, Doreen (Frank) Malin and Linda (Jeff) Leitheiser and his stepmother Reba Cummings.

He was preceded in death by his father Barney, mother Elizabeth, father-in-law Melvin Manning, and brother-in-law Chad Manning.

Tom's legacy of faith and unwavering love for Jesus Christ will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. In keeping with Tom’s final and heartfelt wish, we share the message closest to his heart; Jesus died on the cross for you so that you could be forgiven, know God personally and live life abundantly both now and forever.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

A celebration of life for Thomas will be held on Saturday, December 13, at Northern Lights Church in Richwood MN. 11:00am time of sharing and remembering. Service will begin at 12:00pm. 

Memorial burial pending spring/summer 2026.

Any memorials can be sent to P.O. Box 1500, Detroit Lakes, MN, 56501