James Aaron Cummings, age 85, of Ocala, Florida, formerly of Union Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully.

James was born to the late Marjorie May (Thompson) Cummings and Isaac Thomas Cummings. He was the beloved husband of Berneda Jean Cummings, with whom he shared 31 loving years of marriage.

James was a devoted father to Jerry (Kathy) Davis, Jim Cummings, the late Rhonda Henry, Tom (Theresa) Cummings, Marsha (Andre) Johnson, Carolyn Boyd, Sharon (Tony) Petix, William (Carol) Eaglen, and the late Danny Eaglen.

He was a cherished brother to Linda (Bobby) Turner and brother-in-law Darrel Weaver, and was preceded in death by his siblings Tom Cummings, Bev Snyder, Nola Reece, Faye Reynolds, Roy Cummings, and Thelma Weaver.

James was a proud grandfather to Jennifer Cummings, Megan Duncan, Tyler (Bridget) Johnson, Landon Henry, Miranda Johnson, Marissa Boyd, Savannah Henry, Trevor Petix, Sarah (Joey) McFaddin, Kara (Devan) Pitcher, Tiara Henry, Ryan Cummings, Nicholas (Liz) Eaglen, Ashanta Eaglen, Zane Eaglen and Aaron (Amanda) Eaglen, and was blessed with many great-grandchildren who brought him great joy.

James worked for many years as a tree surgeon, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and love of the outdoors. Outside of work, he had a deep passion for country music, which he loved to perform, and he enjoyed watching classic westerns and black-and-white movies. James will be remembered for his sense of humor, contagious laugh, and the warm smile he freely shared with everyone he met.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Ocala for their compassionate care, as well as to his close friends who stood by him, and his devoted caregiver, Debbie Hensley.

Visitation will be held at the Coats Funeral Home, 3141 Sashabaw Road, Waterford, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Perry Mount Park Cemetery, Pontiac.