Thomas "Pops' Cummings

October 6, 1926 - October 5, 2015

Thomas “Pops” Cummings, 88, of Butler, PA, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2015. Born October 6, 1926, he was of the first generation to be born in America to his Greek immigrant parents, William and Angelina Cummings. Tom was the second generation proud owner and operator of Cummings’ Candy and Coffee Shop in Butler, which was established by his father William Cummings and Uncle Pete Cummings in 1905. Tom was a 1944 graduate of Butler Senior High School when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was stationed onboard the USS Heerman until the end of the war. After serving in the Navy, Tom went to work with his father where he managed and continued to grow the family business. Tom also played semi-pro football for the Butler Tigers from 1946 to 1948. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Cummings (in 1968) and Angeline Cummings (in 1971), and his brother, John “Chico” Cummings in 1943. Tom had a zest for life and a commitment to make a difference in the lives of his family, business, community and friends. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan, purchasing season tickets in 1948 when the Steeler games were played at Forbes Field, and an avid poker player. Tom was a dedicated father, grandfather and father-in-law, always providing support, love and compassion to his sons, granddaughters and daughters-in-law. Apart from being committed to his family, Tom was a pillar in the downtown business community, serving customers of multiple generations, always greeting them with his personal touch and infectious smile, making everyone feel special. His honesty, integrity and well-mannered approach to life are qualities to admire He is survived by his sister, Helen Cummings of Ocean Park, ME; three devoted sons, Bill Cummings of Butler, PA, Bob Cummings of Dallas, TX and Barry Cummings of Butler, PA; his former spouse and mother of his children, Lillian Schottland of Butler, PA; four beautiful granddaughters, Sarah Cummings of Dallas, TX, Emma Cummings of Raleigh, NC, Thomasina “Tommi” and Penelope Cummings of Butler, PA; two loving and compassionate daughters-in-law, Susan (Ritchie) Cummings of Dallas, TX and Jennifer (Logan) Cummings of Butler, PA; as well as numerous extended family members. Cummings - There will be visitation for Thomas “Pops” Cummings at Young’s Funeral Home, Ltd. 127 West Jefferson St. Butler, PA 16003, on Friday, October 9, 2015, from 1pm to 3pm and 6pm to 8pm. A memorial service for family and friends to celebrate Tom’s life will be held on October 10, 2015, also at Young’s Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Father Paisius McGrath from Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church officiating. www.youngfuneralhomes.com.