Michael Maclay Cummings

Michael Maclay Cummings, of Davidson County, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025. Born on May 6, 1953, in Greene County, Ohio, he was the beloved son of the late Hanford Lindsley Cummings Jr. and Patricia Wortham Ryan.

A devoted educator, Michael dedicated much of his life to teaching and mentoring others. He served as a business finance and accounting professor at Salem College, where his passion for learning and compassion for students touched countless lives. Prior to that, he spent a decade as a professor at Barton College—formerly Atlantic Christian College—in Wilson, North Carolina. His colleagues remember him as a leader guided by integrity, patience, and genuine care for others.

Michael was a true lover of animals, and he had a special way of earning their trust and affection. He found peace and joy in the outdoors, whether walking along sandy beaches, exploring mountain trails, or setting up camp beneath a sky full of stars. More than anything, he treasured time spent with family. Those who knew him best will remember his warm heart, easy laughter, and remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. He never met a stranger, only someone he had not yet welcomed into his circle.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his cherished daughter, Carolyn Grace Cummings; his brother, Hanford Lindsley Cummings III; and his beloved fur baby, Scrappy.

Left to honor his memory are his devoted wife, Michelle Brown Cummings; his son, David Cummings (Kathryn); his step-sons, Matthew Mitchell, Tyler Mitchell, and Ryan Mitchell; his step-daughter, Allison Mitchell; and his brothers, William “Bill” Lindsley Cummings and Steven Glenn Cummings. He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren—Patrick Davidson Cummings, Nathaniel Bennett Cummings, Loyal Christopher Redmon, and Khalil Dior Redmon—who brought immense pride and joy to his life. His precious fur babies, Tony and Louie, and Harley and Maggie May, will forever miss their loving companion.

A visitation to celebrate Michael’s life will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Davidson Funeral Home in Winston-Salem, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Michael’s memory will live on in the countless hearts he touched—with kindness, with generosity, and with a love that placed family above all else.