Charlene Jo Cummings

Charlene was born on May 6, 1944, in Liberal, Kansas, to Charles J. and Mildred L. Kunetka. Family lore fondly recalls that she was born at the town's train station. Shortly thereafter, her family relocated to San Antonio, where she spent the remainder of her life.

She attended Robert E. Lee High School and was a proud member of the Lee Volunteer Band. On May 1, 1970, she married the love of her life, Charles Gail "Chuck" Cummings, beginning a devoted marriage that lasted many years.

Charlene worked for the TB Hospital as an Intake Registrar, she then changed her career by moving to Fort Sam Houston laboratory as an Intake Registrar after her marriage to Chuck. After attending San Antonio Junior College, Charlene began her professional career as an Executive Secretary at GPM Life. She dedicated 32 years of service to the company and retired in 2010.

Charlene had a lifelong love of music, especially classic country. She enjoyed friendships with many musicians, including those with whom performed alongside legends such as Kitty Wells and The Louvin Brothers. Music brought her great joy throughout her life.

An adventurous traveler, Charlene explored much of the United States with her sisters, children, and grandchildren, creating cherished memories along the way. One of her most memorable journeys took her to Germany, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Czechoslovakia with her father and sisters. Above all else, Charlene's greatest joy was her family. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, loving them beyond measure.

Charlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, Charles Gail “Chuck” Cummings; her parents, Charles J. and Mildred Lucille Kenutka; her nephew, Gray Rosenthal; and her grandson, Matthew Priess.

She is survived by her children, Charles Cummings II (Michelle), Dana Bechtel (William”Trip”), James Cummings (Dolores), Michael Cummings, and Scott Cummings; her grandchildren, Ashley (Justin), Andrew James Cummings, Lacey Bechtel, Taylor Bechtel, Amber Cummings, Emily Hall (Robert), Andrew Schutt (Lucia), Anna Schutt, and Carly Schutt; her great-grandchildren, R.J. Cummings, Riley Cummings, Alyce Cummings, and Ellen Barth; her sisters, Judy Elliott and Sue Hansmire; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Charlene was deeply loved by her family and by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, resilience, and unconditional love. Her warm spirit, unwavering devotion to her family, and enduring impact on those around her will be remembered always.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Anna Adams and the staff of Holistic Haven Personal Care Home for their compassionate, around-the-clock care, kindness, and support shown to Charlene and her family during her final moments.