John Richard Cummings

A beloved husband, father and grandfather, he departed this life Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009, surrounded by his family. He was 87, a native of New York and longtime resident of Baton Rouge. After his retirement from Ethyl Corp., he enjoyed a career as a freelance travel agent. Visitation at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Friday, Oct. 30, from 1 p.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 1:30 p.m., with the Rev. Thomas Duhé, celebrant. Interment in Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Catherine Radigan Cummings. Left to cherish his memory and celebrate his life are his three daughters and their husbands, Ellen and Bob Beachum, of Baton Rouge, Ann and Michael Pitre, of Cary, N.C., and Jeanne and Richard Sehring, of Alpharetta, Ga.; son and his wife, Jack and Lisa Cummings, of Gonzales; and 10 grandchildren, Steven and Lisa Beachum, Kevin and Meghan Pitre, Brittany, Patrick and Kelsey Sehring and Josh, Daniel and Kayla Cummings. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor and his contagious laugh. He will be greatly missed. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenn., or a charity of your choice. A special thanks to Ascension Oaks Nursing Home for their superior care, kindness and support during our dad's stay. Arrangements by Rabenhorst Funeral Home East.